Saturday 21st February 2026
Article taken from The News, Portmouth
Service marks 109th anniversary of SS Mendi sinking where 646 men died.
A commemorative service was held on Saturday to mark the 109th anniversary of the sinking of the SS Mendi.
The service took place at Milton Cemetery in honour of the 646 men who died after the tragedy 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.
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.”
