Ghana must never forget the eight heroes lost in military helicopter crash

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to ensure that the memory and sacrifice of the eight people who lost their lives in the August 6, 2025 military helicopter crash are never forgotten, describing remembrance as a national obligation that reflects the country’s values and character.

Speaking at the National Interfaith Memorial Service held on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of the tragedy, President Mahama said the nation had deliberately paused to honour eight faithful servants whose lives were cut short while serving Ghana.

“Today is one of those days when a nation deliberately slows its pace, not because history demands it but because memory does,” he said.

He recalled the painful events of August 6, 2025, when the military helicopter crash claimed the lives of eight distinguished Ghanaians, leaving families, colleagues and the entire nation in shock and grief.

“In a single tragic moment, eight precious lives were cut short in a helicopter accident while in service of our nation,” the President said, adding that the silence that followed the announcement was “filled with disbelief, grief and countless unanswered questions.”

President Mahama stressed that the memorial was not only about mourning but about giving meaning to the sacrifice of the departed.

“A country that forgets those who served it slowly forgets the values on which it is built. Memory is not simply about looking backwards; it is an act of national character and value,” he stated.

He noted that although the eight individuals came from different backgrounds and professions, they were united by a shared commitment to serving God and country.

“They answered the call to serve God and the country. None of them boarded that helicopter expecting that it would be their final journey,” he said.

The President reflected on the risks undertaken daily by public servants, many of whom work under difficult conditions with little recognition.

“They travel long distances. They spend countless hours away from their families. They endure difficult conditions. They make decisions under pressure. They accept risks because they believe that Ghana’s progress is worth every effort they put in,” he said.

He urged the nation to appreciate the dedication of public servants not only after tragedy strikes but throughout their service.

Addressing the bereaved families, President Mahama extended the condolences of the government and the people of Ghana, acknowledging that no words could erase their pain.

“Your loved ones did not die alone. They belong to all of Ghana, and Ghana will continue to remember them,” he assured.

The President also called on leaders to reflect on the responsibilities entrusted to them, stressing that every public office carries a sacred duty to protect lives and strengthen institutions.

He said the tragedy should inspire renewed efforts to improve safety standards, invest in the welfare of personnel and build stronger institutions capable of preventing similar incidents.

“The greatest memorial we can build is not one made of stone or bronze. It is one that is built through responsible leadership, improved systems, and a steadfast commitment to protecting those who dedicate their lives to Ghana,” he said.

President Mahama further urged Ghanaians to draw strength from their shared faith, regardless of religious differences, saying the interfaith service symbolised the nation’s unity in prayer and hope.

“As we leave this memorial service today, let us carry with us not only sadness, but also a sense of purpose. Let us honour the departed by serving our nation with greater integrity, placing duty above self-interest and treating one another with greater kindness,” he said.

He concluded with prayers for the eternal repose of the departed, comfort for their families, and God’s continued blessings upon all who serve the Republic of Ghana.

“The names of these eight faithful servants will forever occupy a special place in the story of our nation, not because of the manner in which they died, but because of the spirit with which they lived and served God and country,” President Mahama said.

Government Officials and Politicians

Dr. Edward Kofi Omane Boamah – Minister for Defence

Alhaji Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed – Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation

Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna – Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator

Dr. Samuel Sarpong – Vice-Chairman of the National Democratic Congress (NDC)

Samuel Aboagye – Former Parliamentary Candidate

Military Aircrew

Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala

Flying Officer Amaning Twum Ampadu

Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah