The bravery and patriotism of South African soldiers of Indian origin, who served in major 20th-century wars, were celebrated at the South African Indian Legion (SAIL) of Military Veterans' annual commemoration. Held in collaboration with Johannesburg's City Council at the Ditsong National Military Museum, the event honoured these volunteers' contributions despite the limitations imposed by apartheid.

Many Indian-origin volunteers served as base guards or truck drivers, with few allowed to progress in their military careers due to apartheid-era restrictions. However, they remained dedicated to defending their country. "These valiant members of the community joined the army to defend their country and their communities despite the challenges of apartheid, which reduced them to these lowly positions, but they continued with dedication," remarked Vinesh Selvan, a South African Air Force veteran. After 1948, Indians were completely barred from serving in the armed forces until 1974, when some restrictions were eased.

SAIL, founded in 2018, aims to research and promote the role of South Africans of Indian origin in military history. The organisation also serves as a gathering point for veterans and civil society members. It has highlighted the contributions of Indian-origin South Africans who participated in key conflicts such as the Zulu War of 1879, the Anglo-Boer War, and World Wars I and II. Among them was Dharamraj Aheer Goordeen, a medical student from Natal who became one of the first South Africans of Indian origin to serve in the Indian Royal Air Force. Tragically, Goordeen died in a plane crash in 1942.

The Wall of Remembrance at the Ditsong Museum commemorates these soldiers, with young South Africans laying wreaths at the memorial to honour their ancestors. Thaven and Anasuya Naidoo were among the attendees, remembering their grandfather, Nadasen Govender, who served as a military truck driver in North Africa during World War II. "We had never met my grandfather, but after hearing about his role, I went to the national archives and found a whole lot of information about him – enough to write a book about him," Thaven Naidoo shared, describing his grandfather's difficult two-year stint in Egypt and North Africa.

Johannesburg community member Veena Patel crafted a large wreath in tribute to the South African Indian community. Her interest in military history began after visiting Anzac Cove's memorial in Turkey. Although she had never met any descendants until now, she felt compelled to honour their legacy.

During the event, SAIL Chairman Lionel Moodley awarded medals to several individuals. Colonel Ricky Pillay received the South African Indian Legion Service Medal, while Kogie Chetty and Magandren Padayachee were awarded the Commemorative Medal. Roché Vermaak and his dog Wolfi were also recognised for raising awareness about the role of animals in wars. "Both were recognised for their contribution by SAIL for creating awareness about animals in wars. Vermaak was presented with a Certificate of Appreciation and Wolfi was presented with an Association Badge," noted Selvan.

The event served as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by South African soldiers of Indian origin, whose stories have been uncovered and preserved through the efforts of SAIL.