The Story of the South African Corps of Signals and its antecedents’ is an impressive work of epic proportions, and together with its two companion volumes, will most probably prove to be the book of reference on army signals in South Africa. This first volume is a compilation of some previously published material, but consists mainly of new material never before published or accessible to the general public, large parts which have come from verbal recollections, rather than documentation. It is the result of thorough and meticulous research, including over two hundred personal interviews, stretching over a period of many years. Interviewees range from a number of generals to the lowest troop, to ensure a level of authenticity and reality in all aspects of this history. The result of including numerous personal accounts sprinkled throughout the pages of the book is that the history literally comes alive and creates a sense of personal experience and interest, rather than just a record of dry facts. The author/compiler has also gone to pains in ensuring names and places are mentioned wherever possibly, not just dates and events – again this serves to give the account a greater level of human interest.