JEFFREYS BAY – Jeffreys Bay will come together on 11 November to honour the memory of fallen soldiers and the often-forgotten animal heroes who served alongside them during times of war.
The Flak Moth Shellhole will host a fitting parade of remembrance at 10:30 at the Moth Memorial on the corner of Heid and Da Gama Streets.
Deon van Heerden, event organiser, said that as part of the event, they will host a parade where Moth members will march and then hoist and lower the Moth flag and the South African flag.
Furthermore, he said that they will observe two minutes of silence, read a scripture and partake in prayer, followed by wreath laying by interested parties or individuals and organisations.
“Remembrance Day is observed on 11 November to recall the end of the First World War hostilities. Hostilities ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month of 1918,” said Van Heerden.
While Remembrance Day traditionally honours armed forces members who died in the line of duty, this year’s ceremony will also acknowledge the sacrifices made by animals during wartime.
Van Heerden also emphasised the historical significance of animal contributions to military efforts.
“Homing pigeons were extensively used in the two world wars. In World War II, about 250,000 homing pigeons were used,” said Van Heerden.
“Dogs served alongside soldiers in various roles, acting as loyal companions, sentinels, messengers, and even first aid providers. Horses in World War I were essential for troop movement, pulling artillery and supply carts over difficult terrain.”
Van Heerden said that the recognition of animal service members through Purple Poppy Day, typically observed on 24 February, remains relatively unknown in South Africa.
“I know of only one event in South Africa which was held. It took place in Durban. I don’t know why it does not receive the attention it deserves,” said Van Heerden.
Further elaborating on the Flak Shellhole, he said that it has been serving the Jeffreys Bay community for approximately 27 years.
Van Heerden said that the Jeffreys Bay branch was formed as members had to travel to Gqeberha for events.
“Each year, every Moth shellhole holds its own celebration on this day. Every unit decides on its format. Only towns that have a shellhole do the event. There are just a few shellholes in this province,” said Van Heerden.
He said that members of the public, those wishing to honour fallen family members, friends or animals, and organisations, are invited to attend the parade on 11 November.
Van Heerden further said that tokens of remembrance can be laid after the official wreaths have been laid.
For more information about the Remembrance Day ceremony, contact Tertius Lombard at 072 018 9479.
