

In September 2024, a group of 18 Gunners and their friends embarked on a remarkable
journey to the Sandfontein Battlefield in Namibia. This trip marked the 110th anniversary of
the Battle of Sandfontein, a significant event in South African military history. At the start of
the First World War, a battle raged between British forces, mainly by the South Africans, and
a much larger group of German soldiers.
The commemorative expedition was not only a way to honour the memory of those who
fought and fell in the battle but also an opportunity to explore the historic site and strengthen
camaraderie among members of the Transvaal Horse Artillery (THA).
Departure and Journey
On 24 September, various groups set off from Johannesburg, Vereeniging, and Cape Town.
Most travellers met up in Vryburg, while the Cape Town group made their way directly to the
Sandfontein Lodge and Nature Reserve in Namibia. The convoy regrouped and proceeded
to Upington, where the team stayed at the Oranjerus Resort, thanks to the hospitality of
Gunner Rob McGimpsey. That evening, the group relaxed with sundowners and dinner,
reflecting on the day’s journey and preparing for the next leg of their adventure.




Crossing Borders and Remembering the Fallen
On 25 September, dressed in formal attire for the memorial services, the convoy moved
towards the Namibian border.


After navigating the somewhat slow but smooth border crossing at Nakop and Ariamsvlei,
the group reached Karrasburg, refuelled, and proceeded to Warmbad. Here, a poignant
memorial service was held at the village cemetery, where members of the Transvaal Horse
Artillery and other military personnel rest. Captain Kgori, a serving member of the
Sandfontein Artillery Regiment, laid a wreath, and the solemn notes of the Last Post and
Reveille echoed through the air, honouring the fallen.




Arrival at Sandfontein Lodge and Presentation
The journey continued to the Sandfontein Lodge and Nature Reserve, where the convoy
encountered a slight delay—a burst tyre in the middle of the arid terrain. Nevertheless, the
group quickly resolved the issue and arrived safely at the lodge, where they were warmly
welcomed by hosts Adriaan and Cheri Mulder.


After settling into their comfortable accommodations, they attended an informative
presentation by Dr. Maj. David Katz and Gunner Dominic Hoole on the history of the Battle of
Sandfontein.


Later that evening, the group gathered for a formal Mess Dinner. The roll of honour for the
THA was ceremoniously marched in by Gunner Bobby Marks, setting the tone for a
meaningful evening.


After a delicious meal of lamb shank and crème brûlée, several presentations were made to
the lodge hosts, including a THA Plaque, a history of the Sandfontein Artillery Regiment, and
a picture of a 13 Pdr Gun 289, which had seen action during the battle. The dinner
concluded with toasts and the honouring of the Roll of Honor before everyone retired for the
night.








Commemorative Plaque Installation and Battlefield Tour
The morning of 26 September saw the installation of a granite plaque commemorating the
Battle of Sandfontein. The plaque had been transported all the way from Potchefstroom and
was installed on a plinth built by Adriaan Mulder. Lt. Oscar Ngema led a short memorial
service and wreath laying at the site.








The group then toured the THA gun positions near the lodge, where Col. Grant had
commanded the South African forces during the battle. The THA right section of the 8 th
Battery was commanded by Lt. Adler.
The Battle of Sandfontein, which took place on 26 September 1914, was a devastating
defeat for the South African forces during World War I. Outnumbered and outgunned, the
South African troops, including members of the Transvaal Horse Artillery, fought valiantly
against German forces but ultimately faced heavy casualties. The battlefield, with its rocky
outcrops and sparse vegetation, still holds remnants of this historical encounter, from spent
British and German cartridges to shrapnel fragments and old food tins.


Later that afternoon, after a further wreath laying by Capt. Kgori and Lt. Ngema at the
assumed burial place of the THA drivers, the group visited the German deployment areas
commanded by Major Emil Rappard.


Here, more historical artifacts, such as horseshoes and spent Mauser cartridges, were
discovered, a tangible connection to the past. The group also enjoyed sightings of local
wildlife, including zebra and gemsbok, adding to the unique experience of the day.








Exploring Ramansdrift and Final Farewell
On 27 September, the group departed for Ramansdrift, where the THA originally crossed the
Orange River and the site of a significant German attack on the South African supply
echelon during the battle. The ruins of the old police station and a nearby graveyard, where
German soldiers were buried, served as sobering reminders of the battle’s toll.




An adventurous search for a view of the Orange River led to one vehicle getting stuck in the
sand, much to the amusement of the group.




After resolving the situation and enjoying one last look at the historic landscape, the group
returned to the lodge to collect their belongings.
As they headed back towards the border, a second tyre blowout delayed the convoy.
However, thanks to the efforts of the team, suitable tyres were found in Karrasburg, and
everyone safely crossed the border back into South Africa. The day concluded with beers,
dinner, and early rest at Oranjerus Resort in Upington.
Conclusion
The journey, arranged by the THA Heritage Trust, to commemorate the 110th anniversary of
the Battle of Sandfontein, was more than a trip through history—it was an opportunity for
reflection, remembrance, and connection. The Gunners and their friends honoured the
memory of those who fought and fell in this distant corner of the Namibian desert while
forging bonds of friendship and respect that will last long after the journey’s end. As they
returned home, they carried with them not only the memories of the fallen but also a deeper
appreciation for the history and legacy of the Transvaal Horse Artillery.


For more information the Sandfontein Lodge and Nature reserve as well as interesting facts
about the Battle of Sandfontein please visit:
https://www.sandfontein.com/