There were no flags or insignia of any kind to lead the burghers on.

What mottoes there were that expressed their cause were embroidered on the bands of their slouch-hats and cut on the stocks of their rifles.

"For God and Freedom," "For Freedom, Land, and People," and "For God, Country, and Justice," were among the sentiments which some of the burghers carried into battle on their hats and rifles.
Others had vierkleur ribbons as bands for their hats, while many carried on the upturned brim of their hats miniatures containing the photographs of the Presidents.
Aside from the dangers arising from a contact with the enemy and the heart-burns resulting from a long absence from his home, the Boer burgher's experiences at the front were not arduous.

First and foremost he had a horse and rifle, and with these he was always more or less happy.

He had fresh meat provided to him daily, and he had native servants to prepare and serve his meals for him.