Johannes Geldenhuys

Who is Johannes Geldenhuys?

General Johannes Geldenhuys, SSAS, SD, SOE, SM, is a former South African military commander who served as Chief of the South African Defence Force between 1985 and 1990.

Born in Kroonstad on 5 February 1935, Geldenhuys' military career began when he joined the South African Army in 1954, serving in the infantry. Later he went on to higher command in 1977, serving as commander of South West Africa Command, a post he held until 1980, when he served in the position of General Officer Commanding the South West Africa Territory Force. After this he became Chief of the Army, before being promoted to the position of Chief of the South African Defence Force on the 31st of October 1985. In this role, he took part in negotiations that brought the Border War to an end in 1989, after 23 years of fighting.