Andries Putter facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Andries Petrus Putter
SSAS SD MMM
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| Nickname(s) | Dries |
| Born | 2 December 1935 Brits, North West |
| Died | 17 July 2014 (aged 78) Mossel Bay, South Africa |
| Allegiance |  South Africa South Africa |
| Service/ |
 South African Navy |
| Years of service | 1954 – 1990 |
| Rank | Vice Admiral |
| Commands held |
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| Awards |
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| Relations | Gerda Fourie (Wife) |
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Vice Admiral Andries Petrus Putter (2 December 1935 – 17 July 2014) was an important South African military leader. He was known as "Dries" to his friends. He led the South African Navy as its Chief two times. First, he was Chief from 1982 to 1985. Then, he served again from 1989 to 1990. He was born in Brits, South Africa.
Contents
Andries Putter started his naval journey in 1954. He trained for a year at the Saldanha Naval Gymnasium. He also earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Stellenbosch. This was before the Military Academy was built.
He went to England for a special course. This course taught him about torpedoes and how to find submarines. After his training, he joined the frigate SAS President Kruger. A frigate is a type of warship. On this ship, he worked as a torpedo anti-submarine officer.
In 1969, he took command of the SAS Port Elizabeth. This was a minesweeper, a ship that clears underwater mines. He also became the Senior Officer for all the minesweeper ships.
In 1982, Andries Putter became the Chief of Naval Staff Operations. This was a very important role in the Navy. Then, in 1985, he was appointed as the Chief of the Navy. This meant he was in charge of the entire South African Navy.
Second Term as Chief
Later in 1985, he became the Chief of Defence Intelligence. This role involved gathering important information for the country's defense. In 1989, he was again appointed as the Chief of the Navy.
During this time, the Navy's money was greatly reduced. This happened after the Border War ended. Putter had to make a tough choice. He decided to let go of many Navy members. He retired from the Navy soon after, in 1990. Andries Putter passed away in Mossel Bay on 17 July 2014.
Awards and decorations
Star of South Africa, Silver (SSAS)
Southern Cross Medal (SM)
Military Merit Medal (MMM)
Pro Patria Medal
Good Service Medal, Gold (30 Years)
Good Service Medal, Silver (20 Years)
Permanent Force Good Service Medal
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See also
- List of South African military chiefs
