Montenegrin Emigrants in South African Forces: A Historical Overview

The history of Montenegrin emigrants in the South African Armed Forces reflects a rich narrative of bravery and dedication during pivotal moments in global conflicts. Notably, individuals such as Jovan Aleksić and Denis Bijelić emerged as significant figures within the military landscape of South Africa during the 20th century.

In early 1916, Montenegrin emigrants Nikola Anteljević, Todor Poznanović, and Stevo Milašinović played vital roles in the Second and Third Infantry Divisions. These divisions departed from the front lines in Durban during January and February, contributing to the South African war efforts. Some of these individuals were later honored with military decorations, highlighting their valor.

Among them was a Montenegrin known as Jovanović, who later adopted the surname Marković. He achieved the rank of captain in the South African military. In Johannesburg, the organization “Slovenska sloga” was established in 1915 to support Slavic citizens in South Africa, many of whom faced difficult circumstances due to their status as Austro-Hungarian subjects. Vaso Z. Vukmanović served as the vice president of this organization, with Blažo Pavićević being an active member.

Beyond “Slovenska sloga,” Montenegrin emigrants initiated or participated in various efforts to raise funds and send aid back home to Montenegro and Serbia. Prominent figures in these charitable initiatives included Elena Bijelić, Olga Anteljević, Nina Meštrović, and Jovanka Pantović. Other notable individuals who may have been involved in military operations during this period included Ilija Rolović, Pero Nikač, and Milo Mihaljević. These individuals, primarily from the regions of Crmnica and Rijeka, petitioned for the release of Boža Ćorović and Sava Jelić, showcasing their commitment to their compatriots.

Following World War I, Dejan Bijelić, son of Vaso, served in the South African Armed Forces during World War II alongside his brother Milovan Bijelić, who lived from 1924 to 2007.

Another remarkable figure, Denis Bijelić, was born in Johannesburg in 1921. A distinguished engineer, he rose to the rank of brigadier general in the South African Armed Forces. His father, Vaso Bijelić, emigrated from Mokrina to South Africa in 1902, eventually becoming one of the wealthiest expatriates in Johannesburg. Denis pursued his engineering studies at Wits University and Natal University in Durban.

During World War II, Denis served in the South African Engineer Corps on the North African front and participated in operations in Egypt and Abyssinia from 1940 to 1941. Much of his time was spent in Cairo. After the war, he continued his career in the South African military as an engineering officer. He eventually became a long-term head of the Department of Technical Services and was appointed as project director at the army headquarters in Pretoria in 1972. Denis received numerous honors, including the African Star and the African War Medal, among others. Throughout his life, he consistently supported his homeland and the Montenegrin expatriate community financially. He passed away in 1998 and was buried alongside his parents in Johannesburg.

Another significant figure in this narrative is Aleksandar Anteljević, who was born in Germiston in 1914 to a family that emigrated from Herceg Novi. He completed his pilot training in Johannesburg and served as a military pilot in the South African Air Force during World War II. After the war, he worked as a meteorological pilot and is remembered by his descendants and fellow expatriates as a man of great honor. He passed away in 1982 and is interred in South Africa.

The story of the Aleksić family is particularly noteworthy. Jovan Aleksić, born in 1783 in Maina, held the noble title of “Count of Maina.” He began his military career at a young age, joining the Venetian army at the age of 14. Throughout his life, he served in various capacities within the Austrian and later Austro-Hungarian armies while maintaining his connection to Montenegro. Jovan’s military career included service in the French army during the Napoleonic Wars, and he was eventually promoted to the rank of field marshal. He passed away in 1861 in Vienna.

His son, Teodor Aleksić, was born on May 11, 1825, in Palermo. Following in his father’s footsteps, he attended military academy and joined the Austrian army, ultimately reaching the rank of general. Teodor participated in several key battles and earned various decorations for his bravery. He passed away in Novy Sad on October 7, 1891.

This historical overview not only highlights the contributions of Montenegrin emigrants to the South African military but also underscores their enduring ties to their homeland. The legacy of individuals like Jovan Aleksić, Denis Bijelić, and Aleksandar Anteljević serves as a testament to the resilience and dedication of those who have forged their path in foreign lands while honoring their roots.