Bradford Bandolier

This pattern 1896 leather ammunition bandolier was used as the badge of office for the Dominion President of the South African War Veterans' Association of New Zealand from 1920 to 1980. Known as the 'Bradford Bandolier', it holds 38 silver bullets engraved with the names and tenure of each president of the association.

The bandolier is thought to have belonged to Trooper George Bradford, the first New Zealander killed in action during the South African ('Boer') War, 1899-1902. He was seriously wounded on 18 December 1899 during a clash with Boer forces at Jasfontein Farm in Cape Colony, and died in a Boer hospital 10 days later.

The bandolier is currently on display at the National Army Museum in Waiouru.