General C.R. de Wet

No doubt it was to the advantage and not, as some maintain, to the disadvantage of the Free State burghers when C.R. de Wet was elected "Hoofd Commandant" at Brandfort in March, 1900.

He too was but a farmer - culture he lacked - military training he had none - but the spark of martial genius had fallen and kindled in his breast. In figure, manner and dress he was hardly distinguishable from hundreds of his countrymen, who were not sharers of his military abilities.

Does not his broad forehead indicate thoughtfulness? While his keen and penetrating eyes and firmly set lips are marks of determination and singleness of purpose. And his broad chin, does it not reveal the man of tenacity and endurance?

As an individual he was sympathetic, generous, and magnanimous - he was endowed with discretion and tact, simplicity and honesty.

As a soldier, vigilant, persevering, never indiscreet in anger or disappointment, but always courageous and resourceful. Recognizing the advantages of a surprise, he never lost an opportunity of harassing the enemy.

Through his rare topographical knowledge of his country he baffled the foe by his movements time and again. Followed up by overwhelming numbers, he was compelled more often to evade fighting than offer battle. Never unduly elated, he was bravest and supreme when all others lost heart. He had to contend against treachery, desertion and want, but rose above all these obstacles, and proved himself the most powerful obstructer that the British columns had to encounter in South Africa. Such a man was a boon to his country, and to him the burghers confidently entrusted themselves and their interests. He has proved himself worthy of that trust.

Pieter Hendrik Kritzinger, Boer General