The South African Indian Legion (SAIL) of Military Veterans recently held its annual commemorative service at the Queen Nandi Natal Mounted Rifles Regiment in Durban, paying tribute to fallen soldiers who served in the South African Armed Forces, with a special focus on those of Indian origin.
The solemn ceremony was attended by distinguished guests and representatives from various military veteran associations. A wreath was laid on behalf of the eThekwini Municipality by Councillor Sfiso Mkhize, Deputy Chairperson of the Human Settlements, Engineering, and Transport Committee.
Legionnaire Marcus Govender expressed appreciation for the City’s presence at the event, noting the importance of acknowledging the contributions of South African Indians in military history.
Among the attendees were Colonel Dr Dave Perumal, who received his military training in Russia; Legionnaire Sherene Ramballie, the first Indian woman to serve in the South African Air Force and deployed to South West Africa during the Angolan Bush War; and author and historian Kiru Naidoo, a close friend of the Legion.
Representatives from the South African Special Forces Association and the South African Legion also attended the service and laid wreaths in honour of fallen comrades.
A plaque was presented to Mrs Molly Naidoo, widow of the late Master at Arms, Legionnaire Danny PS Naidoo from Chatsworth, recognising her family’s contributions to the advancement of the South African Indian Legion in the Durban region.
A plaque was presented to Molly Naidoo, widow of the late Master at Arms, Legionnaire Danny PS Naidoo from Chatsworth
Legionnaire (Pastor) Preggy Asogan conducted the memorial service, while Legionnaire Robin Kistan, a former South African Navy chef, proudly served as the official flag bearer.
The South African Indian Legion, a registered Non-Profit Company and Section 18A organisation, is dedicated to researching, documenting, and promoting the history and heritage of South African Indian soldiers. Affiliated with the Council of Military Veterans of South Africa and recognised by the Department of Defence and Military Veterans, the organisation preserves stories dating back to the Zulu War of 1879, the Anglo-Boer War, and both World Wars.
Through its work, SAIL continues to ensure that the contributions and sacrifices of South African Indian soldiers are remembered and honoured for generations to come.
For more information, visit the South African Indian Legion Facebook page for photos and updates on their ongoing initiatives.
