By Emmanuel Nduka
President John Mahama has posthumously promoted three Ghana Air Force officers who lost their lives in the August 6 helicopter crash, hailing their bravery, professionalism, and selfless service to the nation.
At a solemn state funeral held on Friday at the Black Star Square in Accra, Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala was elevated to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manean Twum Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah to Flight Sergeant.
The promotions, the President said, were “the highest mark of respect for duty performed, even unto death,” with their families set to receive the corresponding benefits.
In addition, President Mahama announced the establishment of a Children’s Support Fund to provide for the education, healthcare, and welfare of the victims’ children. The fund, seeded with GH₵500,000 from Stanbic Bank, will be operational within 30 days, with avenues for public and corporate donations. “Let us leave our eight comrades today with a promise that their children will not be alone,” he said.
The crash, one of Ghana’s deadliest military aviation tragedies, also claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and three civilians, who will be honoured at the next national awards ceremony. President Mahama also extended gratitude to emergency responders, religious leaders, and international partners, praying for national healing and unity.
