Book – Page 2 – Gerry van Tonder

North of the Red Line: Recollections of the Border War by Members of the SADF and SWATF: 1966–1989

Over the years, much has been written about individuals and the forces and their operations in what became commonly known as South Africa’s Border War, or Grens Oorlog, but never before has the human spirit of this 23-year-old conflict been so graphically and unashamedly captured and chronicled as in this book.

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Nottingham’s Military Legacy

By Gerry van Tonder

"Nottingham’s Military Legacy" traces Nottingham's pivotal role in British military history, from William of Normandy's castle in 1066 to its transformation into a military hub. It highlights the city's involvement in key historical events, including the English Civil War, the Luddite Riots, overseas campaigns, and both World Wars, culminating in its integration into the Mercian Regiment. This concise account celebrates Nottingham's enduring legacy of valor, sacrifice, and military evolution through the ages.

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OPERATION LIGHTHOUSE: Intaf in the Rhodesian Bush War 1972–1980

By Gerry van Tonder

With verbatim first-hand accounts and anecdotes from Intaf staff at all levels, this book chronicles Intaf’s rapid forced conversion in the 1970s from the original dedicated and efficient district civil administration, to a paramilitary force tasked with carrying out normal administrative functions in abnormal situations.

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Red China: Mao Crushes the Kuomintang, 1949

By Gerry van Tonder

"Red China: Mao Crushes the Kuomintang, 1949" explores the pivotal year when Mao Tse-tung and the People’s Liberation Army, backed by Soviet support, decisively defeated Chiang Kai-shek’s Kuomintang forces, marking a significant shift in China’s future. The narrative traces the long struggle from guerrilla warfare to the establishment of a communist dictatorship, highlighting the impact of the Sino-Japanese War and internal divisions that left the Kuomintang weakened and paved the way for Mao's rise as one of history's most controversial leaders.

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Rhodesia Native Regiment and Rhodesian African Rifles 1916-1981: Book of Remembrance

By Gerry van Tonder

Over the years since 1980 when Rhodesia became Zimbabwe, much has been written and recorded about the various regiments that served the country of Rhodesia from the early pioneers in the 1890s, right through to the day that these fine units marched off their respective parade grounds for the last time and into the august annals of history.

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Rhodesian Combined Forces Roll of Honour 1966-1981

By Gerry van Tonder

The intention of this publication is to honour all who lost their lives in action, or while on active service, with the Rhodesian Security Forces during the period 1966–1981. This publication represents the single most comprehensive Rhodesian Combined Forces Roll of Honour covering the so-called Bush War.

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Sheffield’s Military Legacy

By Gerry van Tonder

"Sheffield's Military Legacy" unveils the city's deep-rooted martial history from its strategic Norman castle to its crucial role in steel production for military purposes. Detailing Sheffield's significant contributions to British military efforts, especially in World Wars, the book highlights local units' valor, the city's enduring spirit, and its commemorations of sacrifice, including six Victoria Cross recipients. A tribute to Sheffield's indelible mark on military history, this narrative celebrates centuries of service and innovation.

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Sino–Indian War: Border Clash October–November 1962

By Gerry van Tonder

"Sino–Indian War: Border Clash October–November 1962" explores the historical and geopolitical tensions between India and China over Himalayan territories, leading to the 1962 conflict. Highlighting the legacy of British colonial borders, the McMahon Line dispute, and the impact of post-World War II shifts in power, the book details the military escalations that culminated in a brief, intense war coinciding with the Cuban Missile Crisis.

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The Berlin Blockade: Soviet Chokehold on Berlin and the Great Allied Airlift 1948–49

By Gerry van Tonder

"The Berlin Blockade" recounts the intense standoff over Berlin (1948–49) between the Soviets, aiming to push the Western Allies out, and the Allies' historic airlift response to sustain the city. Sourced from British press accounts, it vividly captures the Cold War's early tensions, showcasing a mix of military readiness and diplomatic maneuvering against the backdrop of a potential global conflict.

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The Rhodesia Regiment: 1899-1981

By Gerry van Tonder

As the 19th century and Queen Victoria’s long reign drew to a close, volunteer squadrons of the Rhodesia regiment, recruited by Colonel Baden-Powell, were positioned along the border with Bechuanaland, to defend Rhodesia against Boer aggression. In 1914 Rhodesians again rallied to the Crown with the formation of two battalions of the Rhodesia Regiment to counter the German presence in South West and East Africa. Shortly after, many volunteered to join the Allied forces on the Western Front.

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