2025: MEMORIAL SERVICE: BATTLE OF DELVILLE WOOD: PRETORIA
Capt Charles Ross (Capt SAN – Ret)
The Annual Battle of Delville Wood Memorial Service was held on Sunday, 13 July 2025, at the Commonwealth War Graves plot in the Thaba Tshwane New Military Cemetery, Thaba Tshwane.
Upon arrival, attendees were warmly welcomed by staff from the Commonwealth War Graves Commission South Africa and treated to coffee and rusks.
The service was very well attended, with numerous veteran organisations represented, alongside military attachés from various countries. A Chaplain from the South African National Defence Force (SANDF) conducted the religious service. Regrettably, due to the State Funeral of the late former Deputy President, the event proceeded without the accompaniment of a military band.
Following the religious observance and the call to remembrance, wreaths were laid by representatives of veteran organisations and diplomatic military staff. A particularly poignant moment was the laying of a wreath by Veteran Roche Vermaak and K9 Wolfi, in honour of all animals that have died in war.
The SANDF once again provided valuable support, including the supply and erection of tent coverings, as well as sentries, flag orderlies, ushers, and wreath orderlies. Their duties were carried out with precision and professionalism.
As attendees departed, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission team distributed ‘goodie bags’ containing information on the important work they undertake in South Africa.
The Commonwealth War Graves Commission, SANDF, Council of Military Veteran Organisations South Africa, Delville Wood Trust and the Pretoria Memorial Services Council supported the Pretoria Branch of the South African Legion.
