President Cyril Ramaphosa lauded the courage and dedication of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) during a stirring keynote address at the annual Armed Forces Day commemoration, drawing parallels to the heroic final moments of soldiers aboard the ill-fated SS Mendi over a century ago.
In his speech, Ramaphosa recounted the tragic sinking of the SS Mendi on February 21, 1917, during World War I, where more than 600 South African troops perished in the icy waters of the English Channel. He highlighted survivors’ accounts of the soldiers’ “final death drill,” where the men stomped their feet and chanted in unison as the ship went down—a powerful emblem of unity and valor that, he said, continues to define the SANDF today.
“According to survivors’ accounts, the men performed what they called a final death drill – stomping their feet and chanting as the ship went down, symbolising courage and unity,” Ramaphosa stated. “That is the symbolism that we have in our defense force, in our soldiers and those who serve in the army, navy, air force and in the medical corps.”
The event, held in Thohoyandou, attracted members of the public who described it as both enlightening and motivational. One attendee shared their enthusiasm: “I am here to celebrate this day with the SANDF and to also see the president and different soldiers within the SANDF. I am so happy that I will leave to tell this history to others, we are learning a lot from this day. It is my first day hearing about Armed Forces day, I never knew about it and I am so happy that the president is here in our town. I have learned something new today.”
The commemoration featured a video tribute to the SS Mendi and showcased the SANDF’s capabilities, underscoring the force’s role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty and responding to contemporary challenges. Ramaphosa’s address emphasized the enduring spirit of sacrifice within the military, honoring those who have served and fallen in defense of South Africa.