The motto emblazoned on the scroll proclaims 'LIFE FIRST'. This is the essence of the arduous duty and challenge that has confronted medical forces labouring on the battlefields of war & peace throughout history. Remaining steadfast to this mission will mean the alleviation of pain and suffering, and the safeguarding of the Army's vital fighting strength.
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1. Snake or Serpent
It has traditionally been associated with the arts and sciences of medicine. Its origin can be traced to ancient Greece where temples devoted to worshipping the god of medicine, Aesealapins, abounded. These temples served also as hospitals and in each was to be found a circular pit containing a snake. Retrieved by coiling the serpent from around a wooden rod, it was believed that applying the snake's forked tongue to the diseased body brought about healing.
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2. Sword
It replaces the rod and is the recognised symbol of the Army. It is raised in righteousness and strength, unsheathed in readiness to do battle. The entwining of the snakes evokes the intimate bond between the Army's Medical Services and its fighting forces.
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3. Maroon and Gold
They are the colours of the SAF's earliest Medical Services logo. The colour of the scroll harkens to the flag of our predecessors, the British Royal Army Medical Corps, whereupon the colours of dull cherry, blue and old gold are to be found.
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Last updated on 13 Nov 2006
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