When Is Armed Forces Day 2024?
South Africa: Wednesday, February 21, 2024
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Armed Forces Day in South Africa
Armed Forces Day is an annual event that marks South Africa's greatest wartime maritime disaster. It is celebrated on February 21st, the day of the 1993 SAS Protea tragedy.
The SAS Protea was a South African Navy corvette that sank in a storm off the coast of Lüderitz, Namibia, with the loss of all 120 crew members. The tragedy was a major blow to the South African Navy and a reminder of the dangers faced by those who serve in the country's armed forces.
Armed Forces Day is a day to remember the sacrifice of those who have served in the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), both past and present. It is also a day to celebrate the SANDF's role in defending South Africa and its citizens.
The SANDF is a modern and well-equipped force that plays a vital role in protecting South Africa's interests at home and abroad. The SANDF is also a major contributor to peacekeeping and humanitarian operations around the world.
On Armed Forces Day, South Africans pay tribute to the men and women of the SANDF for their selfless service and sacrifice.
President to Officiate Annual Armed Forces Day
President Cyril Ramaphosa will, as Commander-in-Chief of the South African National Defence Force (SANDF), officiate at the Armed Forces Day commemoration that will take place at the Air Force Base Swartkop in Centurion.
The event is scheduled to start at 09:00 and will include a military parade, flypast and wreath-laying ceremony. President Ramaphosa will also deliver a speech at the event.
It is anticipated that more than 10,000 people per day will visit the Fan Park at AR Abass Stadium in Garankuwa during the three-day event.
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