Lt. Col. Ron Reid-Daly Obituary – Cause of Death : “Commander of Selous Scouts Ron Reid-Daly Passes Away”

The world of military history has just lost a true legend with the passing of Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly. Affectionately known as the Commander of the Selous Scouts of Rhodesia, Reid-Daly was a man of great courage and leadership. News of his death on August 9, 2010, has left many in mourning.

Reid-Daly’s legacy is one that will never be forgotten. His time as the head of the Selous Scouts, a special forces unit in Rhodesia, was marked by daring missions and strategic victories. He was known for his tactical brilliance and unwavering dedication to his troops. Under his command, the Selous Scouts became one of the most feared and respected units in the region.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Reid-Daly was also admired for his integrity and compassion. He was a mentor to many young soldiers, instilling in them a sense of duty and honour. His presence will be sorely missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

While the details surrounding Reid-Daly’s death are still unclear, one thing is certain – the world has lost a true hero. His legacy will live on in the hearts of those who served under him and the countless lives he touched. Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly will forever be remembered as a brave and selfless leader, whose impact on the world will never be forgotten.

Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly, the Commander of the Selous Scouts of Rhodesia, passed away on August 9, 2010. His death marked the end of an era for the Rhodesian military and left a void in the hearts of those who served under him. Let’s take a closer look at the life and legacy of this remarkable leader.

Who Was Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly?

Ron Reid-Daly was a legendary figure in the history of Rhodesia. Born in South Africa in 1928, he joined the Rhodesian Army in 1953 and quickly rose through the ranks. In 1973, he was appointed as the commanding officer of the Selous Scouts, a special forces unit known for its unconventional tactics and ruthless efficiency.

Reid-Daly’s leadership style was characterized by a combination of discipline, innovation, and courage. He was respected and feared by his enemies, and revered by his men. Under his command, the Selous Scouts became one of the most effective counter-insurgency units in the world, striking fear into the hearts of the guerrillas fighting against the Rhodesian government.

What Were the Achievements of the Selous Scouts?

The Selous Scouts were responsible for numerous successful operations during the Rhodesian Bush War, including the infiltration and decimation of guerrilla forces in neighboring countries. Their tactics were highly controversial, but undeniably effective. They were credited with saving countless lives and preventing the spread of communism in southern Africa.

One of the most famous operations carried out by the Selous Scouts was Operation Dingo, in which they infiltrated a guerrilla camp in Zambia and eliminated over 1,000 insurgents. The success of this operation solidified the reputation of the Selous Scouts as a force to be reckoned with.

How Did Reid-Daly’s Leadership Shape the Selous Scouts?

Ron Reid-Daly’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the ethos and effectiveness of the Selous Scouts. He instilled a sense of pride, discipline, and loyalty in his men, and led by example in the field. His willingness to take risks and think outside the box inspired his troops to do the same, resulting in numerous successful operations.

Reid-Daly was known for his hands-on approach to leadership, often accompanying his men on dangerous missions and leading from the front. His dedication to the welfare of his soldiers earned him the respect and admiration of all who served under him.

What Was Reid-Daly’s Legacy?

Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly left behind a lasting legacy in the annals of military history. His leadership of the Selous Scouts is still studied and admired by military tacticians around the world. He was a visionary leader who was not afraid to challenge conventional wisdom and push the boundaries of what was thought possible in warfare.

Reid-Daly’s passing was a great loss to the Rhodesian military community, but his legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of those who knew him. He will always be remembered as a fearless warrior, a brilliant strategist, and a true hero of Rhodesia.

In conclusion, Lieutenant Colonel Ron Reid-Daly was a true legend of the Rhodesian military, whose impact will be felt for generations to come. His leadership of the Selous Scouts was instrumental in turning the tide of the Rhodesian Bush War, and his legacy continues to inspire soldiers and leaders around the world. May he rest in peace.

(Source: The Daily Telegraph)