The City of Johannesburg, led by Speaker of Council Cllr Margaret Arnolds, in partnership with the Freedom Regiments and supported by the South African National Defence Force, commemorated the 105th National Remembrance Sunday Service on 9 November 2025 at the Anglo-Boer Memorial in Saxonwold.

​​The solemn ceremony honoured the memory of men and women who sacrificed their lives in pursuit of peace and freedom.

Families of military veterans, representatives of the armed forces, and guests from across the country gathered to pay tribute to their bravery and enduring legacy.

The observance featured a formal parade, the laying of wreaths, and a moment of silence in remembrance of the fallen. The day is marked globally to commemorate members of the British and Commonwealth armed forces who lost their lives in wars and conflicts.

In her address, Cllr Arnolds reflected on the day’s deeper meaning: “It is deeply saddening that, despite the lessons and sacrifices of the past, conflict continues in parts of the world today. Let us embrace the true spirit of Remembrance Sunday — to remember and honour those who have fallen. We must commit ourselves to peace, dialogue, and compassion, ensuring such suffering and loss are never repeated.”

Cllr Arnolds led the wreath-laying ceremony, followed by representatives of regiments and families of veterans.

Among those in attendance was Mike Thompson, who shared his personal story: “This day is bittersweet for me. I lost my grandfather during the Second World War, and though I was only three years old, I still remember the pain it caused my family. Today, we honour his sacrifice with pride and gratitude.”

The ceremony concluded with attendees laying flowers in remembrance of loved ones — a simple yet powerful act of reflection and unity.

Remembrance Sunday stands as a solemn reminder of the cost of freedom and a collective call to build a peaceful, just, and compassionate society.

Written by Thembelihle Radebe