Veterans tour restored memorial sites in Springs

Veterans and friends gather at the Springs Mine and Military Museum (MMM) for the first Springs military sites heritage tour.

2 hours ago

Palesa Tsotetsi 1 minute read

Veterans explore the restored equipment at MMM.

The Springs Mine and Military Museum (MMM) hosted its first Springs military sites heritage tour on August 10.

Organised by the Steel Helmet Moth Shellhole, the special tour allowed its members to explore the restored memorial sites in Springs.

The event utilised a 60-seater bus, generously donated by Supa Bus, and attended by 56 military veterans and friends of MMM.

Among the attendees were senior retired and active military generals, staff from the Ditsong Johannesburg War Memorial, and representatives from various veteran organisations.

Master Warrant Officer Errol Brits said the tour aimed to raise awareness about ongoing restoration projects at historical sites in Springs and to seek new equipment for the local museum.

A German 1897 Howitzer at MMM used in the SWA-German war. Photo: Springs – History of a Gold Town Facebook

Veterans, known for their dedication to preserving memorials and weapons, supported the event.

“Many had been actively involved in various activities at the memorial sites, with the Gunners’ Association playing a key role in restoring equipment at the MMM,” said Brits.

Highlights of the tour included veterans sharing their expertise on the equipment displayed at MMM.

The social gathering that followed offered a setting for the veterans to engage in lively discussions and camaraderie. Given the positive response, similar tours will be planned soon.