“World War II Veteran Sydney Ireland turns 100!”

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Sergeant (retired) Sydney Ireland, a veteran of the Battle of El Alamein in Egypt, is the last remaining Signaller from World War II in South Africa. He celebrated his 100th birthday at Huis Lückhoff in March 2021.

Due to the covid-19 restrictions, it was unfortunately a small celebration, but family and friends, as well as fellow residents and staff at the home made sure that it was a joyful and memorable occasion nonetheless.

Pipers Caireen and Brian from the Nelson Mandela Artillery Regiment’s pipe band struck up a jaunty “Happy Birthday” song to pipe him into the festively decorated hall. Several delicious cakes had been donated, including by the Mayor of the City of Cape Town, Alderman Dan Plato, the South African Legion, Pick’n Pay Plumstead and Pick ‘n Pay Rondebosch. The Cape Welsh Choir sang World War II songs that had everyone humming and clapping along.

Happy Birthday, Mr Ireland!

Published in The Muse, Pinelands Community Magazine, in April 2021.