South Africa Holds Memorial Service for Fallen Defence Force Members

South Africa Holds Memorial Service for Fallen Defence Force Members

The South African National Defence Force (SANDF) has held a memorial service for four of its members who died in a tragic vehicle crash.

The incident occurred last week while towing a Samil 50 truck that suffered a tyre burst, resulting in both vehicles overturning. The unfortunate event took place en route to the South African Army Combat Training Centre in the Northern Cape on September 20.

Identifying the Fallen Servicemen

The fallen servicemen have been identified as Pte T.M. Petlane, Rfn C.N. Samuels, Rfn L.Siko, and Rfn T.S Pieterson, all from the 8th South African Infantry. In addition to the tragic fatalities, two officers were critically injured and rushed to hospital, while nine others suffered minor injuries.

A joint memorial service has been scheduled to honour the fallen officers. Major General R.E Mecuur, the SANDF defence corporate communication director, announced that the service will be held at the 8 South African Infantry Battalion in Upington at 9am. He also confirmed that full military arrangements for the fallen officers would be made.

The individual burial details of the deceased have also been shared. Pte T.M. Petlane will be laid to rest in Zastron, Rfn C.N. Samuels in Koffiefontein, and Rfn L.Siko in Soweto, all on September 30. Rfn T.S Pieterson’s burial will be in Kimberley on October 7.

Remembering the Lost SA Navy Officers

This tragedy occurred only a few hours after another incident where three SA Navy officers lost their lives at sea. A joint memorial service is also going to be held for Lieutenant Commander Gillian Elizabeth Hector (Executive Officer), Master Warrant Officer William Masela Mathipa (Coxswain), and Warrant Officer Class One Mmokwapa Lucas Mojela (Coxswain under training) on the same day.

SANDF Mourns the Loss of Seven Members

The SANDF is mourning the loss of seven of its members due to two separate incidents. Full military arrangements and memorials are being arranged to honor the fallen servicemen and women. The specifics of the individual burials have also been shared for those wishing to pay their last respects.