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President Cyril Ramphosa delivered the key note address at the Armed Forces Day, in Thohoyandou, Limpopo
President Cyril Ramphosa has applauded members of South African National Defence Force (SANDF) for the bravery they exhibit in defending the country.
Delivering the keynote address at the Armed Forces Day, Ramaphosa says the survivors’ account of the sinking of the SS Mendi in 1917, is a legacy that lives on within the defence force. More than 600 South African soldiers lost their lives that day.
Ramphosa says SS Mendi’s final death drill account symbolised courage and unity.
“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. 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,” says Ramaphosa.
ARMED FORCES DAY | President Cyril Ramaphosa says the SS Mendi stands as a symbol of courage in the face of adversity — noting that black soldiers were previously not recognised for their sacrifice. pic.twitter.com/37dvtr49ar
— SABC News (@SABCNews) February 21, 2026
ARMED FORCES DAY | President Cyril Ramaphosa pays tribute to the fallen soldiers who died in the SS Mendi in 1917. pic.twitter.com/HPug3QQ34d
— SABC News (@SABCNews) February 21, 2026
VIDEO | South Africa observes Armed Forces Day
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h8Qjh6TRtFA
Members of the public that gathered at the Armed Forces Day commemoration have described the event as both educational and inspiring.
“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,” says a member of the public.
RELATED VIDEO | President Ramaphosa set to honour fallen soldiers
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=33YCgi_60fQ
