ANGLO-ZULU WAR RECONCILIATION and REMEMBRANCE SERVICE 
  29th August 2004

St John's cemetery is home to a number of graves of soldiers who died in the Anglo-Zulu war of 1879 and also contains a memorial to those soldiers.  The 29th of August was the closest date to the 125th anniversary of the cessation of hostilities, and was therefore chosen for a special service of reconciliation and remembrance.

The service was attended by Prince M Buthelezi (representing the Zulu forces) and Lt Col D Strawbridge of the British Peace Support Group who represented the British forces. Also attending were commanding officers of the Natal Carbineers, Durban Light Infantry, Durban Regiment, Natal Mounted Rifles and 1 Medical Battalion, as well as the Deputy Provincial Police Commissioner.  The SA Legion and a contingent of the MOTHS were present, and the Highway Commando provided the Guard of Honour.

A moving service was held in the church, during which a military historian, Mr Keith Archibald (right), spoke of the War, its origins and its aftermath.  This was followed by talks by Prince Buthelezi and 
Lt Col Strawbridge.

The congregation then moved in procession to the gravesite where, 
after prayers of blessing, wreaths were laid.