Background
He was born in Somerset East, Eastern Cape Province on 20 August 1891 to January S. de Villiers of Cape Town.
- Photos
- Works
- Photos
- Works
Isaac Villiers
Edit ProfileEducation
He was educated at the South African College School in Cape Town and the University of Cape Town.
Career
In 1928, he was appointed a lieutenant colonel in the South African Police, later succeeding to the post of Commissioner. He was commissioned in the Royal Artillery during World War I, serving in German South-West Africa and the Western Front. He was awarded the Military Cross while serving in the 68th Brigade.
Back in South Africa in 1919, he joined his father"s law firm, but in 1928 was appointed Commissioner of Police for the Union of South Africa.
He volunteered for military service in World World War II, and served as General Officer Commanding 2nd South African Infantry Division from 1940 to 1942. He trained the division, which incorporated a police battalion, and commanded them in internal security operations at the beginning of the war, then commanded the division in North Africa in 1941 and 1942, for which he was made a Companion of the Bath (Central Bank).
During this campaign units under his command, including New Zealand cavalry, were responsible for the capture of Bardia, but many of the South African division"s personnel were taken prisoner of war at Tobruk. From 1942 to 1945, he commanded the Coastal Area Command, responsible for the coastal defence of South Africa.
In this capacity he was called upon to co-operate with the Royal Navy, and made a name both by his determination to make a success of his command and by his scrupulous fairness in dealing with individuals.
Achievements
-
Born
-
Died
October 11, 1967 (aged 76) -
Nationality
South Africa