Frontline footsoldiers carrying the torch for their brothers around the country
Every month, members of the South African Infantry Association (SAIA) meet at the Uniflor Hotel to embrace the bonds forged in war.
Serving together on the frontlines of battle will turn strangers into lifelong friends. The comradery and unity of accomplishing a shared goal and suffering a mutual loss cements an enduring companionship.
Every month, members of the South African Infantry Association (SAIA) meet at the Uniflor Hotel to embrace the bonds forged in war. Catering mainly for Veterans who served as infantrymen in the South African Defence Force (SADF), South African National Defence Force (SANDF) servicemen, permanent force, commandos, and citizen’s force, nationwide branches aim to promote camaraderie and create a haven for ex-servicemen.
Not exclusively for infantry, they are open to any ex-members or serving members of all departments of the SADF and SANDF who can join as friends of the association. “We established the SAIA West Rand branch about two years ago. We have launched several projects over this time, for instance, handing out of food parcels at a local old age home, amongst others. We also assist Veterans that require support in terms of medical and other needs,” said Chairman Allan Baudry.
Registered with the Department of Military Veterans, the SAIA issues certificates and infantry pins to all its members, as they did on Saturday, 31 October. They also assist with documentation for outstanding medals, so should you be a ex-serviceman looking to trade war stories, go the Uniflor Hotel on the last Saturday of every month or contact Allan Baudry on 084 734 4497.
