Military intelligence veterans hold remembrance service at Fort Klapperkop
Twenty wreaths were laid down for those who lost their lives in military operations including a special wreath laid by a German Shepherd wreath-bearer who did so commemorating all deceased military animals.
The annual remembrance service of South Africa Military Intelligence Veterans’ Association (SAMIVA) took place at the historical Fort Klapperkop on Sunday, 6 February.
Military dignitaries and representatives of different civilian organisations, four foreign countries and war veterans representing SAMIVA and other veteran organisations were in attendance.
The proceedings started at sunrise to pay homage to those who lost their lives in various intelligence services. The remembrance service coincided with International Intelligence Day to honour and commemorate fallen comrades.
The Secretary of SAMIVA Mike Huxtable welcomed the attendees to the wreath-laying ceremony as the sunlight hit the Troepie Monument.
Huxtable reminded those in attendance how important it was to have such events as a way of remembering those who sacrificed their lives for causes they believed in.
Tshwane Community and Social Development Services MMC Sakkie du Plooy, who served in the military as a chaplain during the 1980s lead the service in prayer. He spoke of how essential faith was in life.
Following the opening, members of the different associations began laying down wreaths, saluting in honour and respect.
20 wreaths in total were laid commemorating the lives lost including one by the German Shephard named Max.
Max represented all the animals that lost their lives in military service and operations.
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The aim of SAMIVA is to take care of military intelligence veterans who are in dire need.
They are supported by the association throughout SA. SAMIVA also strives to keep the traditions of the South African intelligence community history alive through regular gatherings and reunions as well as the gathering of items of historical significance for safekeeping in the SAMIVA Museum.
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