Mahama elevates fallen airmen in posthumous honour
Independence Square Mourns as Ghana Bids Final Farewell
President John Dramani Mahama has conferred posthumous promotions on three Ghana Air Force personnel who perished in the August 6 military helicopter crash, hailing their “service and sacrifice to the nation.”
As Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, the president made the announcement at a solemn interfaith funeral service held at Independence Square on Friday, 15 August 2025, to pay tribute to the victims. The ceremony was attended by senior government officials, the military high command, bereaved families, and mourners from across the country.
The servicemen honoured were Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Under the posthumous promotions, Squadron Leader Anala was elevated to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Twum-Ampadu advanced to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Mensah promoted to Flight Sergeant.
President Mahama described the loss as “a great loss to the nation,” stressing that the officers “died in the line of duty” and exemplified the highest standards of military service.
“They stood as guardians of our skies and defenders of our sovereignty. Their dedication and professionalism will forever be remembered,” he said.
The president reaffirmed the government’s commitment to providing full support to the families of the fallen officers, ensuring that their memory and legacy endure.
The crash, which claimed the lives of eight government and military officials, has been described as one of the darkest days in recent Ghanaian military history. Investigations into the cause are ongoing.
