Ian Deetlefs

Maj Gen Ian Deetlefs (Rtd) served in the South African Army's Reserve Force from 1965–2003. He became the first of the South African National Defence Force in 1997. He retired from the SANDF in 2003 and was succeeded by Maj Gen R.C. Andersen.

Education
General Deetlefs matriculated from Maritzburg College in 1964. He studied Economics at the University of Natal (Durban) and graduated in 1971.

Military career
Gen Deetlefs has served with
 * 1 Special Service Battalion (1 SSB) (B Company of 1 South African Infantry Battalion) (1SAI)
 * Army Gymnasium
 * 6 South African Infantry Battalion (6SAI)
 * Natal Carbineers
 * OC Umkomaas Commando
 * OC Congella Regiment (Founding Member)
 * Natal Command (SSO) Citizen Force Liaison Officer
 * First Chairman of the Reserve Force Council
 * First Chief of Defence Reserves of the SANDF (Reporting to Chief SANDF) ( Member of the Plenary Defence Staff Council (PDSC)) (Founder and Chairman of the Defence Reserve Board) (DRB)

As part of his responsibilities regularly briefed the of the SA Parliament.

Civilian Career
Some of his work experience includes


 * Director of JSE listed Companies and various Private Companies



Honours and awards
Gen Deetlefs has been awarded the following: