The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) held a solemn candlelight vigil at the Air Force Base in Accra on Tuesday evening in honour of three military personnel who died in a helicopter crash on August 6.
The fallen servicemen — Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah— were aboard a Z-9 military helicopter that crashed while on a national assignment.
The incident also claimed the lives of five senior government officials, including the Minister of Defence and the Minister of Environment, Science and Technology, sending shockwaves across the country.
The vigil drew high-ranking members of the military and government officials, including the Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong; the Chiefs of the Army, Naval and Air Staff; retired Generals; Serving Officers; and the families of the deceased.
Addressing mourners, Deputy Minister of Defence, Mr Ernest Brogya Genfi, paid tribute to the departed officers, describing them as patriots whose lives exemplified selflessness, loyalty, and national service.
“In sacrifice, they gave their lives. In service, they gave their strength. Ghana is safer because they served,” he said.
Mr Genfi urged continued unity in grief and strength in service as ”we mourn and honour the good work of our fallen servicemen.”
“This is not just a ceremony. It is a reaffirmation of our solidarity, a symbol of remembrance, and a call to continue serving with the same courage our fallen heroes embodied.”
Among those honoured was Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, a Z-9 helicopter technician who had recently celebrated his wedding.
He was remembered as a “dependable and dedicated serviceman.”
“His laughter eased tensions, his diligence set the standard, and his integrity forged unbreakable bonds.”
Also eulogised was Flying Officer Manin Twum-Ampadu, an aircraft technician who joined the Air Force in 2011. Known for his humility and leadership, he was described as a role model who inspired all who served with him.
The vigil followed a national night of reflection held on Saturday, August 9 and the burial of the two Muslim victims on Sunday, August 10.
President John Dramani Mahama, in an earlier address, expressed his condolences and assured the bereaved families of continued government support.
BY RAYMOND APPIAH-AMPONSAH
