By: Belinda Nketia
President John Dramani Mahama has announced posthumous promotions for three Ghana Armed Forces personnel who died in the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash in the Adansi Akrofuom District. He described the gesture as the highest mark of respect for “duty performed even unto death.”
Speaking at the State Funeral for the eight victims at the Black Star Square, President John Mahama said Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala has been promoted to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Manaen Twum-Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Addo Mensah to Flight Sergeant.
“These are not just symbolic gestures,” President Mahama said. “They represent the rightful place these officers have earned in our Republic’s roll of honour, and the benefits due to their families will be reflected in these new ranks.”
He added that the Chief of the Defence Staff will oversee the ceremonial presentation of the insignias to the bereaved families.
President Mahama added that promotions in the Armed Forces are “never given lightly,” and that posthumous promotions are reserved for those who have demonstrated the highest level of sacrifice. “They were on a mission to save lives when they lost theirs,” he said.
The President also confirmed that the civilian colleagues who died in the crash will be honoured at the next National Honours Ceremony.
In his opening remarks, President Mahama told mourners, “There is no making sense of what happened…Whatever technical reasons or official explanations the investigation will yield, a loss of this magnitude and in this manner will never make sense to the grieving heart.”
He urged Ghanaians to “move in the direction of peace within our communities and families, having been reminded of how fragile life can be,” and to embrace the vision shared with the fallen “for a stronger and more prosperous homeland.”
The August 6 crash claimed eight lives. The President’s address paid tribute to their “love, dedication, and service,” and ended with the assurance: “You will always be in our hearts… and we will always revere your memory.”
