JOHANNESBURG - The 14 SANDF soldiers who died in Goma, Eastern DRC, will be laid to rest with full military honours.
The ceremony - steeped in tradition – takes place with strict military protocol and is usually attended by senior military officers who deliver tributes to the fallen.
Chaplain Jurgens Olivier explains that the funeral typically takes place at a military cemetery, or another designated venue.
The coffin, draped with the South African flag, is escorted by military vehicles and uniformed personnel.
"A guard of honour is formed by the members and is usually accompanied by a military band playing ceremonial music," he says.
"A 21-gun salute is fired at the gravesite and the folded flag presented to the family followed by a moment of silence."
Olivier adds that support is provided during these difficult times.
"We take a holistic approach to spiritually comfort and respectably assist the family. We also offer them spiritual counselling."
He acknowledges the emotional toll the funeral can take on all those involved, including the chaplains, given the shared bond and camaraderie within the army.
Olivier describes "The Last Post" - played on trumpet - as the most heart-wrenching moment, marking the finality of the soldier's journey.
"Comrade, you completed your service to the country and the SANDF, and the SANDF retires you," he says.
"We honour your memory. We salute you."