Residents invited to attend SS Mendi commemorations

Residents are invited to attend a commemorative service marking the 109th anniversary of the sinking of the SS Mendi. The service will take place at Milton Cemetery on Saturday 21 February, from 10:45am to 11:15am.

On 21 February 1917, the SS Mendi was travelling through thick fog in the English Channel when it was struck by the larger steamship SS Darro. The collision caused catastrophic damage, and the Mendi sank within 25 minutes. A total of 646 men, including members of the 5th 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, where the city gathers annually to honour their memory.

The Lord Mayor of Portsmouth, Cllr 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."

Residents are encouraged to attend and take part in this poignant act of remembrance.