The Chief of the South African Navy, Vice Admiral Monde Lobese, led a solemn congregation at Naval Base Simon’s Town to commemorate the lives of three submariners who tragically perished at sea three years ago.

The ceremony also marked the third anniversary of the tragic SAS ’Manthatisi incident, which first occurred near Kommetjie on 20 September 2023.

Noble reminder

Speaking on Sunday 20 September, Vice Admiral Lobese addressed grieving families, high-ranking military officials, and municipal representatives at the site of a memorial plaque unveiled exactly one year prior.

The service honoured Lieutenant Commander Gillian Hector, Master Warrant Officer William Mathipa, and Warrant Officer Class 1 Mmokwapa Mojela, who lost their lives in a naval accident that occurred during a high-stakes vertical transfer exercise in which a freak wave swept them off a submarine.

In his address, Vice Admiral Lobese emphasised that the memorial plaque they unveiled last year serves as a “noble reminder of the brave submariners who lost their lives in service to the country.

It was last year, on the exact date, that we all gathered here for the unveiling of this memorial plaque before us. This plaque is a symbol of honouring our submariners’ bravery and commitment; and to also acknowledge the dangers our sailors are exposed to whilst out at sea,” he said.

Praising courage

He praised the fallen crew for their courage, noting that they dedicated months to the physically and mentally demanding realities of submarine operations.

“They dedicated hours, days and months on end, as part of the crew, working within the cramped confines of boats, making it ready to go to sea, and indeed took the boat to sea. It is therefore no coincidence that our efforts to remember the human cost of the sea can only be executed in a form of such a gathering,” he added.

Concluding his address, Vice Admiral Lobese extended ongoing condolences to the immediate families who continue to bear the “invisible wounds” of the tragedy.

“Us as serving members, we draw strength in the valour and commitment that was displayed by our fallen members, because of an understanding that we are in service of something greater than oneself. Deeply intertwined will they remain among us for through their sacrifice we are encouraged as we strive to rule the seas,” he said.

He reaffirmed that the memorial site would remain an educational and reflective anchor for generations to come, ensuring their bravery continues to inspire the public.

ALSO READ: Service to commemorate submarine tragedy on Sunday