South African Women’s Army Auxiliary Service (WAAS/VLHD) Shoulder Title

South African Women’s Army Auxiliary Service (WAAS / VLHD) shoulder title, an original example of military uniform insignia associated with the Women’s Army Auxiliary Service of South Africa during the Second World War period. The bilingual abbreviation “WAAS / VLHD” reflects the English and Afrikaans titles used by the organisation.

The shoulder title is constructed in brass with lettering, designed for wear on the shoulder straps of the uniform as a clear indicator of corps affiliation. “WAAS” represents Women’s Army Auxiliary Service, while “VLHD” refers to the Afrikaans equivalent, Vroue-Leërhulpdiens. The bilingual format reflects the dual-language structure of South African military administration during the period.

The Women’s Army Auxiliary Service was established to support South Africa’s wartime military effort by providing personnel for clerical, administrative, communications, transport, and support duties, allowing male personnel to be reassigned to operational roles. Shoulder titles of this type formed part of the standard uniform insignia worn by members of the service.

This example represents an authentic piece of South African women’s military history from the Second World War era, illustrating the expanding role of women within Commonwealth military organisations during the conflict.

Manufactured in brass with original fittings to the reverse, the title provides a durable and historically representative example of wartime auxiliary service insignia.

Dimensions
Approx. 40mm width

Condition
Good overall condition, with clear lettering and a well-preserved surface. Light wear and minor marks consistent with age and service use may be present. Reverse fittings remain intact and secure. No significant damage or repairs are evident.