Headdress and insignia - Delville Wood Commemorative Museum Opening 1986

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PHOTOGRAPH OF SOME OF THE VETERANS WEARING THEIR BERETS
(from http://www.sadf.info)

The Battle of Delville Wood, fought during the Somme campaign in World War I, has become a symbol of the South African participation in World War 1.

The opening of the monument took place in 1926, ten years after the battle.

Sixty years later a large contingent visited Delville Wood on Armistice Day (November 11) in 1986.

A group of more than 400 South Africans and 1500 French guests attended to pay tribute to South Africans who took part in both world wars and other conflicts.

The group included the last South African Delville Wood living veterans and those from other campaigns.

Sir Percy Fitzpatrick, who had led the effort for the 1926 memorial, was represented by his daughter.

I have built a collection around both openings and have had the privilege to visit the wood on three occassions.

All the veterans who attended the 1986 ceremony were given a beret with the "general service or pioneers" badge.

The beret also had a miniature version of the old South African (pre-1994) flag.

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The beret in my collection.

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CLOSER VIEW OF THE BADGE AND FLAG

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THE PROUD VETERANS
http://www.sadf.info

I have a set of first day covers commemorating this event.

The complete signed sets were limited to 100 and they were signed by dignatories and the veterans.