The annual commemoration honours the courage and sacrifice of South African soldiers who fought during the Battle of Delville Wood in July 1916, one of the most significant battles involving South African forces during the First World War.
The Battle of Delville Wood, fought between 15 and 20 July 1916, during the Somme Offensive, is remembered for the extraordinary courage displayed by the 1st South African Infantry Brigade. Despite suffering devastating casualties under relentless enemy attack, the brigade held its position in what has become one of South Africa’s most enduring symbols of bravery, resilience and sacrifice.
The Delville Wood Memorial stands as the country’s national memorial dedicated to all South Africans who served in all theatres of war. It remains the only memorial dedicated to the participation of South African forces on the Western Front during the First World War and serves as a place of remembrance for all South Africans who lost their lives in the First World War and subsequent conflicts.
Watch this space for more information and pictures that will be shared in due course.