MORE than 60 South African Defence Force veterans and supporters gathered at Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles in Durban for the inaugural Oumanne Remembrance Parade on Saturday (May 30).

The ceremony, which was hailed as a success by Oumanne co-founders Rupert Meyer and Wally Coombe, was dedicated to honouring fallen servicemen and women and celebrating the enduring bonds of military service.

“The parade served not only as a remembrance ceremony but also as an opportunity to strengthen ties between veterans’ organisations and honour the shared heritage of those who served in South Africa’s military formations,” said Meyer.

The event marked a significant milestone for the organisation, which was established in March 2025 as a brotherhood focused on camaraderie, mutual support and preserving the friendships forged through military service.

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The parade was overseen by Parade Sergeant Major Sgt. Maj. Jason Israel of SAS Jalsena, while the wreath-laying ceremony formed the emotional centrepiece of the event. Addressing those in attendance, Ouman Guillaume Nel reflected on the sacrifices made by South African servicemen and women during the Border War and paid tribute to those who never returned home.

He also recognised veterans who continue to uphold the values of service, loyalty and comradeship in civilian life. Wreaths were laid on behalf of numerous military and veterans’ organisations, including Oumanne, the South African Legion, the Royal Air Force Association South Africa, 61 Mechanised Battalion Group, 1 Special Service Battalion, Technical Services Corps, SAS Jalsena, the Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles Board and the SA Military History Society.

“A particularly memorable wreath was laid on behalf of the public by eight-year-old Mason Linton, whose enthusiasm, respect, and proud appearance in traditional Scottish attire captured the attention and admiration of all present,” said Coombe.

Adding to the significance of the event were KZN Philharmonic Orchestra trumpeter Yosuke Matsui and Durban piper Stacy Grundy, whose performances of the Last Post, Reveille and a traditional lament added poignancy to the occasion.

Coombe extended the organisation’s gratitude to Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles for hosting the parade. “Thanks are also extended to all participating organisations, veterans, families, supporters, and guests whose attendance helped make the inaugural Oumanne Remembrance Parade a resounding success,” he added.

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