THE RHODESIANS ARE COMING

 

Three caricatured Rhodesian soldiers move at the double beneath the slogan, carrying long rifles and field kit associated with the Bush War. The black line artwork has the loose character of a period barracks cartoon.

 

THE HISTORY

 

The Rhodesian Bush War developed through the 1960s and ended with the transition to internationally recognized Zimbabwe in 1980. Rhodesian Security Forces fought the guerrilla armies ZANLA and ZIPRA in a conflict shaped by decolonization, Cold War support networks and international isolation after the 1965 Unilateral Declaration of Independence.

 

The rifle most closely identified with the Rhodesian infantryman is the 7.62×51mm FN FAL family. Rhodesia used Belgian rifles, the British-pattern L1A1 Self-Loading Rifle and South African R1 rifles. Sanctions made standardization difficult, so FAL types served beside weapons including the G3. Collectors also know the field-applied yellow-green camouflage paint found on many surviving Rhodesian FALs. It was practical camouflage, commonly worn through hard use, not a factory decorative finish.

 

Small-unit operations often centered on a four-man unit called a “stick.” In Fireforce actions, sticks could be inserted by Alouette III helicopters known as G-Cars or by parachute, while an armed Alouette K-Car provided command and fire support.

 

WHO IT’S FOR

 

Made for Rhodesian militaria collectors, Bush War historians, Cold War readers, camouflage collectors and anyone who appreciates the dry humor of old soldier artwork.

 

The VDG Militaria logo is printed on the right sleeve. Available in Ash, White, Natural, Heather Military Green and Heather Sapphire.

 

THE SHIRT

 

Printed on a Gildan 5000 Unisex Heavy Cotton Tee made from 100% cotton, with a 5.3 oz mid-weight knit, classic fit, crew neck and tear-away label. Machine wash cold, inside out, with like colors. Tumble dry low. Do not iron directly over the artwork.