The Chief of the Defence Staff, Lieutenant General William Agyapong, has expressed profound grief over the tragic August 6 helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight individuals, including senior government officials and military personnel. Speaking at the funeral service on Friday, August 15, he described the loss as a heavy blow to the Ghana Armed Forces and the nation at large.
In a moving address, the CDS reflected on the irreplaceable contributions of the late Defence Minister, Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, and the three gallant aircrew — Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — whose service, he said, epitomised excellence, dedication, and sacrifice.
He lauded Dr. Omane Boamah’s short yet impactful tenure as Defence Minister, marked by transformative leadership and visionary reforms under the “Resetting Ghana” agenda. The Minister championed merit-based recruitment, retooled the Ghana Armed Forces, revitalised the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited (DIHOC), and prioritised the welfare, health, and mental well-being of troops and veterans. “He was not just a leader, but a role model and mentor whose words carried grace and depth,” Lieutenant General Agyapong noted.
Squadron Leader Anala, commissioned in 2014, was remembered as a highly skilled pilot whose advanced operational capabilities and technical expertise enhanced mission success and safety. His mentorship of junior officers strengthened the Ghana Air Force’s readiness and discipline.
Flying Officer Ampadu, commissioned in 2021 after excelling at the Royal Air Force Training Academy, was described as a rising star in air operations, blending precision in navigation with a meticulous approach to mission planning. The CDS praised his adaptability and professionalism, noting his promise for future command roles.
Sergeant Mensah, an aircraft technician enlisted in 2011 and certified in 2016, was honoured for his engineering mastery that kept the Z-9 helicopter fleet mission-ready. His diagnostic skills, adherence to airworthiness standards, and mentorship of junior technicians were vital to operational success.
“To the bereaved families, I extend my deepest condolences. May the peace and comfort of the Almighty God be with you,” the CDS said, before paying a solemn military salute to the fallen.
“As the bugle sounds and the night holds its silence, we salute them — brave men who served with pride and fell with honour. Their skills and dedication will continue to influence our training, maintenance, and operational doctrines for years to come. They will be sorely missed but fondly remembered. May their souls rest in perfect peace.”
