Jack Greeff, born in the Free State town of Vrede, joined the SADF as a boy soldier at the age of 16 and became the youngest member of the Permanent Force to complete the tough Part One Instructor’s Course at the Infantry School at Oudtshoorn. After five years service with 5 South African Infantry, both as an instructor and as a platoon sergeant in the operational area, he passed selection for the Recces and qualified as a combat operator.

He served in the Recces for 11 years and was the recipient of the Golden Operator’s Badge for 10 or more years as a combat operator in Special Forces. He became one of the most decorated soldiers in the SADF – all awarded for achievements and bravery during special operations. This included a well-deserved Honoris Crux. After rising to the rank of major he resigned to pursue a career as a game ranger. He has since successfully directed anti-poaching operations, firstly in South Africa’s world-renowned Kruger National Park and later elsewhere in Africa.

Awarded the Honoris Crux for his role in Operation Kerslig (Candlelight), during the attack on Luanda harbour on 30 November 1981.