SS Mendi: Portsmouth service to act as 'powerful reminder' of tragic disaster which killed 646 men
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Emotional commemorations will be taking place to honour those who died in the sinking of SS Mendi.
The service, marking the 109th anniversary of the tragedy, will be taking place Milton Cemetery on February 21.
On February 21, 1917, the passenger steamship was travelling through thick fog in the English Channel when it was struck by the larger vessel SS Darro. The collision caused catastrophic damage, and SS Mendi sank within 25 minutes.
A total of 646 men, including members of the fifth Battalion of the South African Native Labour Corps, lost their lives in what remains one of Britain’s most tragic maritime disasters. Nine of the soldiers who died are buried at Milton Cemetery. The city is invited once again to remember those who passed away and honour their memory.
The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, councillor Gerald Vernon-Jackson, said: “Each year, this service offers us a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of the men of the SS Mendi. Their story is a powerful reminder of the global contribution to the First World War and the deep human cost carried by communities far beyond Portsmouth.
“It is our duty to ensure their legacy endures, and I warmly encourage residents to join us in paying tribute.” The service will commence at 10.45am and conclude at 11.15am.