DURBAN - THE dire need of financial assistance for military veterans was spoken about during the annual service of remembrance, outside Durban City Hall’s cenotaph, for victims of World War I.
November 11, the day on which armistice was signed declaring the end of World War I, has become the remembrance day for both world wars, and in South Africa of all subsequent conflicts including the freedom Struggle. Wreaths were laid at the cenotaph by families and various military organisations on Sunday.
Legionnaire Bryan Dore, the chairperson of the Durban branch of the South African Legion, said that with the current unemployment, poverty and poor service delivery military veterans could not obtain benefits from the state. Dore also serves on the Council of Military Veterans, which is the main subsidiary of the national military veterans’ association.
He said it was an ongoing battle to obtain benefits. The association, he said, was trying to create a self-sufficient environment. The legion would wait for the new leadership in City Hall so they could start discussions again.
“Where they cannot access benefits or benefits have been exhausted, we help the people with small business or micro businesses, in particular. We are trying to get a micro agriculture project going.”
“With the recent behaviour by veterans, which was unfortunately expressed in a fashion that is unbecoming of those wearing uniforms, one has to appreciate their frustration. Is this not the time, then, to start to cement our bonds as veterans across the various veteran associations and commit to seeking opportunities where we can become more self-sufficient through, for example, community food production, micro-enterprises, house building and services, instead of waiting for handouts?”
Dore said this was a very wide field and the tasks were daunting. However, he said that with the initiative to be found in veteran organisations, the experience and capabilities were in abundance.
“Where we gather to remember those who have gone before in service of our country, let this be the place where veterans remember sacrifices and gratitude. Extend the hand of friendship, help and commit to building a future for ourselves, our families, our communities and the youth of South Africa,” Dore said.
Daily News