President John Dramani Mahama has honoured three Ghana Armed Forces personnel who lost their lives in the August 6 helicopter crash with posthumous promotions, describing the gesture as the nation’s highest recognition for duty carried out unto death.
Delivering a tribute at the interdenominational state funeral held on Friday, August 15, President Mahama extended condolences to the bereaved families and the entire country, noting that the tragedy was a national loss.
“Promotions in the Armed Forces are never given lightly, and posthumous promotions remain the highest mark of respect,” he said. “Accordingly, I have approved the following: Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala is promoted to Wing Commander; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu is promoted to Flight Lieutenant; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah is promoted to Flight Sergeant. These are not just symbolic gestures but the rightful places these officers have earned in our Republic’s roll of honor. Their families will also benefit from the entitlements attached to these new ranks.”
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The President added that the Chief of the Defence Staff will oversee the ceremonial presentation of the insignias to the families.
He further announced that the civilians who perished in the crash would be formally recognized at the next national honors ceremony.
The helicopter crash claimed eight lives, including Dr. Edward Omane Boamah-Defence Minister, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed, Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation; NDC Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; former Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed; and the three military officers.
Source: Starrfm.com.gh
