KARIEGA – An emotional tribute to military veteran Vick Seekoei marked more than just a birthday celebration when the South African Cape Corps Military Veterans Association (SACCMVA) presented the 81-year-old with a Certificate of Recognition during a surprise ceremony at his home on Saturday, 27 June.
The event, which coincided with a joint birthday celebration for Seekoei (81) and his wife, Katrina Seekoei who turned 79, brought together family members, military veterans, church leaders and representatives of the Gamtouer Clan to honour a man whose military service dates back to the 1970s.
Instead of waiting until after his passing to acknowledge his contribution, Seekoei’s children invited the SACCMVA leadership from Kariega and surrounding areas to personally present the award while he could still appreciate the recognition.
Family members said the veteran was deeply moved by the surprise.
“He kept saying he never thought he would see the day. It is often said that military veterans are only honoured at their graves. To be recognised while alive, surrounded by his family and friends, meant everything to him,” a relative said.
The ceremony also drew support from representatives of the House of Klaas, the Dawid Stuurman Council and members of The Christian Assemblies in Uitenhage, who offered prayers for Seekoei and his family.
According to SACCMVA, the recognition forms part of a broader effort to ensure veterans receive appreciation during their lifetime.
“Our military veterans are the heroes of many other heroes of this soil. If we wait until a man has passed away to say thank you, we have waited too long,” said Dirk Tarentaal, Eastern Cape Executive committee chairperson. Tarentaal could not attend the ceremony but delegate Kalie Breda, secretary from Robert Sobukwe Town (formerly Graaff-Reinet) Military Veterans.
Seekoei’s family described him as a man of discipline, faith and community spirit whose years of military service helped shape his lifelong commitment to his family and community.
The family expressed gratitude to everyone who contributed to making the celebration a memorable occasion, including the master of ceremonies, SACCMVA members, community leaders, church representatives, volunteers and sponsors who assisted with transport, catering and décor.
The event has already generated interest among other veterans and their families, with SACCMVA indicating that it plans to identify and honour more living military veterans across Kariega and neighbouring communities.
Community members who attended said the ceremony offered younger generations an opportunity to meet a veteran, hear his story and gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made by former servicemen.
As the celebrations concluded, Seekoei left with more than a framed certificate. He departed with the knowledge that his years of service had been recognised by the community he faithfully served.
For many in attendance, the ceremony carried a simple but powerful message: gratitude should not wait until a funeral. Those who serve their country deserve to hear “thank you” while they are still here to receive it.
we stand together as one and we need help think about our children
I’m feeling honoured knowing that we as SAKK military veterans are being treated as very special persons in our country, may we grow from strength to strength…