Lowveld MOTHs to host parades for Remembrance Sunday
The MOTHs’ Remembrance Day parades are open to the public.
The MOTHs will host various parades at venues across the Lowveld this coming weekend, November 9 to 11, to commemorate the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month.
Remembrance Sunday is a solemn occasion observed in South Africa and most Commonwealth countries, dedicated to remembering the sacrifices of the armed forces and civilians in times of war. Falling on the second Sunday in November, it is a day to honour those who gave their lives in conflicts, primarily focusing on WWI, but also encompassing subsequent wars and military operations.
Historical background:
The origins of Remembrance Sunday trace back to the aftermath of WWI, which concluded on November 11, 1918, when Germany signed an armistice with the Allies. The first official Armistice Day was held on November 11, 1919, to commemorate the end of the war and to honour the fallen. The red poppy, inspired by the famous poem “In Flanders Fields” by Lieutenant Colonel John McCrae, became the symbol of remembrance.
@lowvelder A beautiful tribute to the brave South Africans who fought at Delville Wood, held at the Kaapsehoop Cemetery. delvillewood kaapsehoop warveterans warveteranshonoured southafricatiktok🇿🇦
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The continuing importance of remembrance:
Remembrance Sunday remains a vital tradition, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought and died for their countries are not forgotten. It is a time for reflection, gratitude and education, reminding current and future generations of the horrors of war and the value of peace. As conflicts continue in various parts of the world, the lessons of Remembrance Sunday are as relevant today as ever.
Lowveld parades:
The parades arranged by the MOTHs are always open to the public. Please feel free to attend a parade in your area.
All veterans may wear their medals on the day, and family members of a deceased military veteran may wear that person’s medals, but on the right breast.
• Barberton: Saturday, November 9, 10:30 for 11:00, at the Cenotaph in De Villiers Street.
• White River: Sunday, November 10, 10:15 for 10:45, at the Mpumalanga MOTH Shellhole (Cnr of Danie Joubert Street and Chief Mgiyeni Khumalo Drive).
• Kaapsehoop: Saturday, November 9, in the Kaapschehoop Historical Cemetery.
• Mbombela: Monday, November 11, 19:00 for 20:00, at the Legogotu MOTH Shellhole at 6 Russell Street.
