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Frederich Wilhelm Loots

SSA SD SM
Born (1917-04-29)29 April 1917
Britstown, Cape Province, Union of South Africa
Died 12 August 2008(2008-08-12) (aged 91)
Pretoria
Allegiance  South Africa
Service/branch  South African Army
Years of service 1939-1982
Rank Major-General
Commands held
  • GOC South West Africa Command (1963–1964)
  • Director of Military Intelligence (1966–1970)
  • Inspector General of the SADF (1970–1973)
  • GOC Special Forces (1974–1982)
Battles/wars Border War
Awards
  • Ribbon - Star of South Africa (1952).gif Star of South Africa (SSA)
  • Ribbon - Southern Cross Decoration.gif Southern Cross Decoration (SD)
  • Ribbon - Southern Cross Medal (1952).gif Southern Cross Medal (SM)

Major General Frederich ('Fritz') Wilhelm Loots was a very important general in the South African Defence Force (SADF). He is best known for starting the South African Special Forces and being their first leader.

Early Life and School

Fritz Loots was born in Britstown on April 26, 1917. He went to school at Theron High School. After finishing high school in 1936, he joined the Special Service Battalion. This group helped young men learn military skills and get jobs during a tough economic time.

Military Career

In 1939, Fritz Loots joined the Union Defence Force. He was part of the Infantry Corps and fought in World War II. By 1947, he had become a Warrant Officer. In 1951, he was made an officer.

He worked in many different roles within the SADF. From 1959 to 1963, he was the leader of the Army Gymnasium. This was a place where soldiers trained.

In 1963, he was put in charge of the South West Africa Command until 1964. By 1965, he was a senior officer in Military Intelligence. He then became the Director of Military Intelligence from 1966 to 1970.

His last job before retiring was Inspector General of the SADF. He retired in June 1973. However, he returned to service in August 1974. He came back to create the South African Special Forces. He continued to serve until he retired again on April 25, 1982. Major General Loots passed away on August 12, 2008.

Awards and Medals

Major General Loots received many awards for his long and dedicated service. These medals show his bravery and hard work.

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