The pain of losing a loved one is unimaginable, especially if their passing was too soon. The coronavirus pandemic has made 2020 a year full of struggle, hardship, and sadly, of loss.

In light of all the recent passings because of the virus, including three members Roodekrans Neighbourhood Watch (RNW), a convoy was led through four Roodepoort areas on the evening of Saturday, 25 July as a sign of respect.

At 6.30pm, RNW patrollers and committee members joined several security and emergency services companies outside the RNW ops room in Roodekrans, where they waited for the patrol to leave at 7pm.

The small parking area outside the ops room was not big enough to fit in all the vehicles that arrived to join the convoy and show their respect. Approximately 80 vehicles were lined up on Wilde Amandel Avenue with their emergency lights flashing, ready to drive through Roodekrans, Wilro Park, Poortview and Breaunanda.

The three hour long commemoration was organised by Martin Lombard, head of patrollers for the RNW. Before the convoy departed, he addressed everyone who attended, paying tribute to all of the people who have passed away due to the virus. “Tonight, we are not separate entities. Tonight, we stand as one,” said Martin.

He paid tribute to the 53-year-old Jerome West, who was both a patroller and RNW committee member and sadly passed away because of the virus. “He had an amazing ability to diffuse tension, but I think his laugh is one of the things we will miss most.” The rest of the committee shared these sentiments, adding that his kindness and willingness to assist the community were outstanding.

RNW vehicle EP1 led the convoy made up of various other entities, including DMS, Absolut Security, Apcan, Dowry, ER24, Help24, AfriForum Roodepoort and Krugersdorp, Secure 24, the Helderkloof Neighbourhood Watch, and the Kruin Community Voluntary Association.

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The vigil was held as a sign of mourning and respect, but it was not a gloomy evening. The solidarity and camaraderie could be felt by anyone who was witness to the event. Residents joined the vigil and showed their support and respect by standing outside of their homes with candles lit as the convoy passed by with their sirens blaring. “The reaction was outstanding,” said Andreas Oberlechner, chairperson of the RNW. He further shared his joy in the fact that tributes have been flowing in from as far as the Eastern Cape.

That Saturday night, the Roodepoort residents, emergency services and security entities showed that even if a situation is painful and difficult, the love and support shared by a community can add light to any dark moment.