An original Rhodesian / South African Defence Force (SADF) cloth formation flash, believed to represent either Headquarters (HQ) Command or Echo Company (E Coy), worn during late-stage Rhodesian Bush War and early South African Border War operations, circa 1978–1983.This embroidered flash was typically stitched to the upper sleeve or bush jacket pocket, signifying affiliation with either the battalion command headquarters or the fifth rifle company (E Coy) within a mechanised or light infantry formation.The “Echo” Company designation followed the British and Commonwealth structure (A–E companies), where Echo Company frequently served as a support or specialist unit—for example, handling heavy weapons, reconnaissance, or communications within elite formations such as the Rhodesian Light Infantry (RLI) or SADF 61 Mechanised Battalion Group.If HQ-affiliated, the flash would have been worn by staff officers, signallers, and intelligence personnel assigned to Sector or Brigade Headquarters, likely within the Rhodesian Midlands Command or South West Africa Command.Typically locally made in Rhodesia or northern South West Africa, these flashes were produced in short runs by regional tailors and supply officers, featuring machine embroidery on canvas or cotton backing. Survivors are extremely scarce due to the limited number issued and heavy field use.