Latest news with #RupertMeyer
The Citizen
16-05-2025
- General
- The Citizen
Durban North residents called to honour animal veterans this Remembrance Day
THE South African Legion North Coast Branch invites the public to attend its annual Purple Poppy Parade on Saturday, May 17, at 10:30 at the Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles base at 101 Isaiah Ntshangase Road (formerly Walter Gilbert Road). Also read: Durban North babies and carers need temporary shelter This unique and poignant event pays tribute to the often-overlooked animal veterans of war — dogs, horses, donkeys, camels, pigeons, and even falcons — who served with bravery and loyalty alongside human soldiers in conflicts past and present. The purple poppy, worn internationally, symbolises remembrance for these unsung animal heroes. The ceremony will feature a formal wreath-laying, a dog display on the parade ground, and a social bring-and-braai following the service. Fires will be provided, and a cash bar will be available. Members of the public are encouraged to attend and take part in this special moment of reflection and gratitude. 'Service animals played a vital role in many theatres of war,' said Legionnaire Rupert Meyer, media liaison for the North Coast Branch. 'From horses carrying troops in the Anglo-Boer War to dogs detecting landmines in modern peacekeeping missions, their contribution is undeniable. This parade is an opportunity to honour their bravery and sacrifice.' History offers no shortage of remarkable stories. Among them is Sergeant Stubby, a dog who served in World War I, credited with saving an entire unit by warning them of a gas attack and even capturing a German spy. In another tale of valour, a homing pigeon named Cher Ami, gravely wounded during World War I, delivered a critical message that saved over 190 American soldiers from friendly fire. 'We may not all wear medals or uniforms,' added Meyer, 'but remembering these silent veterans reminds us of the broader cost of war and offers a meaningful way to teach younger generations about sacrifice and courage.' Wreath layers are asked to report at 09:00 with clearly labelled wreaths. Military participants should attend in Dress Code 1A, military spectators in Dress Code 1B, and civic representatives in official robes of office. For more from Northglen News, follow us on Facebook , X or Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
The Citizen
03-05-2025
- Politics
- The Citizen
SA Legion North Coast Branch executive re-elected
IN A show of great trust and confidence in the leadership skills of the executive committee, members of the South African Legion's North Coast Branch recently voted for the re-election of all incumbent office bearers for the year ahead. At the AGM held on Saturday, April 26, at the Queen Nandi Mounted Rifles (formerly the Natal Mounted Rifles) in Durban, the Legionnaires voted for Clifton Ingle to retain his position as chairperson. He will be seconded by Stephen Schuster, who will continue his role of vice chairperson. Appointed to the newly-created position of communications and liaison is Legionnaire Rupert Meyer who said the role of treasurer will remain with Nicholas Skipworth-Michell, while Lana Skipworth-Michell will act as secretary of the South African Legion's North Coast Branch. He said, 'KwaZulu-Natal regional chairman, Legionnaire Steve Leahy, was in attendance to oversee the official voting-in process and lend his support to the North Coast branch's ongoing efforts. Several civilian guests were also present, and as is tradition, the AGM was followed by a relaxed bring-and-braai social — a staple of the branch's monthly gatherings and a reflection of the camaraderie and community spirit that define the North Coast Legion.' Also Read: SA Legion highlights the significance of Poppy Day The SA Legion, which is the oldest military veterans' organisation in Africa, was established to serve the community in 1921. Through the Royal Commonwealth Ex-services League (RCEL), it is linked with 54 member organisations in 49 countries, 18 of which are in Africa. Meyer said the SA Legion primarily serves the interests of military veterans and their families. 'The South African Legion admits as members those who have served in the forces of the Union/Republic of South Africa, MK, APLA, AZANLA or those of the former TBVC states. Commonwealth veterans, as well as persons sympathetic to the cause of the Legion, are also welcomed in the Legion's ranks,' added Meyer. The Legion believes in giving back to the community and engaging in meaningful projects that benefit society at large. They undertake initiatives such as fundraising for charitable causes, and volunteering. People can help the SA Legion by volunteering their time and skills to support veterans through activities such as mentorship, fundraising, organising events, or joining them. People can also make donations or participate in fundraising initiatives by providing resources and support for the Legion's programmes. For more information on the organisation or to volunteer, contact Rupert Meyer on email: salnc@ For more from Berea Mail, follow us on Facebook, X and Instagram. You can also check out our videos on our YouTube channel or follow us on TikTok. Click to subscribe to our newsletter – here At Caxton, we employ humans to generate daily fresh news, not AI intervention. Happy reading!
