Mahama Honours Fallen Air Force Officers with Posthumous Promotions

President John Dramani Mahama has conferred posthumous promotions on three Ghana Air Force personnel who tragically lost their lives in the August 6 military helicopter crash, describing the gesture as a tribute to their “unwavering service, sacrifice, and loyalty to the nation.”

The announcement was made in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces during a solemn interfaith funeral service held at Independence Square in Accra on Friday, August 15, 2025.

The ceremony brought together senior government officials, the military high command, Members of Parliament, traditional leaders, clergy, bereaved families, and mourners from across the country, all united in grief and national solidarity.

The servicemen honoured were: Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala – posthumously promoted to Wing Commander. Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu – posthumously promoted to Flight Lieutenant and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, posthumously promoted to Flight Sergeant.

In a moving tribute, President Mahama described the fallen officers as “heroes who embodied the very best of our armed forces” and “patriots who paid the ultimate price while serving their country.” He stressed that their deaths represented not only a personal loss to their families and colleagues but also “a great loss to Ghana as a whole.”

“These gallant men died in the line of duty, upholding their oath to defend and serve, even at the cost of their lives,” the President said. “Today, we elevate their ranks not only as a formal recognition of their distinguished service but as a symbolic reminder to all that courage, professionalism, and devotion to country never go unnoticed.”

The August 6 helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of the three officers and five others, has been described as one of the most devastating tragedies to hit the Ghana Armed Forces in recent years. The chopper, reportedly on a routine operation, went down under circumstances that are still under investigation by a joint military and aviation safety board.

As the flag-draped coffins were presented for the final military honours, a 21-gun salute echoed across Independence Square, while Air Force personnel performed slow salutes in a show of deep respect. Wreaths were laid on behalf of the government, the armed forces, and the bereaved families.

President Mahama reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting the families of the fallen, pledging that they would not be forgotten. “Their legacy will live on in the history of the Ghana Armed Forces,” he assured. “We will ensure that their children and loved ones are cared for, and that their stories inspire future generations of officers.”

The ceremony ended with the solemn strains of the Last Post, as the nation bid farewell to its heroes.

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