The Springs Mine and Military Museum held an honour parade and memorial service on March 28 for soldiers who lost their lives during the Battle of Bangui in 2013.

The ceremony marked the unveiling of the museum’s Wall of Remembrance, which bears plaques to honour the 15 SANDF soldiers.

Over 4000 Central African Republic Rebels stormed 200 South African soldiers at their base camp. Thirteen South African soldiers were confirmed killed in the battle, 27 were wounded and two later succumbed to their injuries.

The commander of the 2013 Battle of Bangui in the DRC, Colonel William Dixon, travelled from Cape Town to unveil the memorial.

Museum founder Tony da Cruz said, “It was a special morning. The turnout was what we expected, as we had an RSVP private event.”

The Benoni High School Pipe Band played parade music, and 12 wreaths were laid by various military veterans’ associations.

Dixon gave a realistic first-hand account of the battle and commended the troops for their bravery.

Da Cruz also praised the chiefs of the Gunners Association, including Major General Roy Anderson, Moths representatives, and the chairperson of SAAFA East Rand, Roelf Rossouw, for contributing to the event’s success.

“Establishing regular events like these to memorialise moments in our military history is vital to set anchors for our youth to connect with these important junctions in South Africa’s history.

“The fallen soldiers’ families are also honoured, and it makes their loss and suffering a bit easier to bear,” said Da Cruz.