The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. Gen. Thomas Oppong-Peprah, has paid a moving tribute to the late Defence Minister, Dr Edward Omane Boamah, and three gallant soldiers who perished in the August 6 military helicopter crash.
Speaking at the solemn state funeral held at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, the CDS described Dr Boamah’s tenure as Defence Minister as “transformative,” despite its short duration.
He highlighted how the late Minister’s leadership brought innovation, strengthened operational capacity, and redefined the Ghana Armed Forces’ approach to welfare and development.
According to Lt. Gen. Oppong-Peprah, Dr Boamah’s priorities included merit-based recruitment, bridging the accommodation deficit within the forces, revitalising the Defence Industries Holding Company Limited, and ensuring comprehensive healthcare and welfare services for both troops and veterans.
These initiatives, he noted, were part of a broader vision to modernise the Armed Forces.
“He was not just a boss or leader, he was a role model and mentor,” the CDS recalled, praising Dr Boamah’s depth of thought, grace, and capacity to inspire teamwork and a shared sense of mission.
Tributes to Fallen Airmen
CDS Oppong-Peprah also honoured Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah — all of whom died in the line of duty during the ill-fated mission.
Squadron Leader Anala, commissioned in 2014, was remembered for his advanced piloting abilities, technical knowledge, and dedication to mentoring younger officers. His contributions, Lt. Gen. Oppong-Peprah said, significantly enhanced the Air Force’s combat readiness.
Flying Officer Ampadu, commissioned in 2021 after completing training at the Royal Air Force Academy, was celebrated for his precision, adaptability, and tactical skill.
These attributes, the CDS observed, positioned him as a clear prospect for future command within the Air Force hierarchy.
Sergeant Mensah, an aircraft technician who enlisted in 2011, was praised for his engineering expertise and meticulous adherence to airworthiness standards. Beyond his technical skills, he was lauded for mentoring junior technicians and ensuring the operational readiness of the Z-9 helicopter fleet.
“To the bereaved families, I extend my deepest condolences. 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.”
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Lt. Gen. Thomas Oppong-Peprah
Dr Boamah’s death marked a profound loss, not only for the Ghana Armed Forces but for the nation as a whole.
The former Minister’s vision for a modernised, well-resourced, and highly trained military left a mark that colleagues believe will influence defence policy for years.
A Nation in Mourning
Friday’s funeral ceremony was marked by a blend of military precision and deep emotion. The Black Star Square, adorned with national colours, became a space of collective grief and reflection.
Armed Forces personnel stood in solemn formation, while family members and friends clutched portraits of their loved ones.
The CDS’s tribute, though official in tone, carried the personal weight of a man who had worked closely with the fallen. His words painted a picture of leadership, loyalty, and bravery — qualities he urged the Armed Forces to uphold in honour of those who had passed.
As the national flag was lowered and the final salute rendered, the echoes of Lt. Gen. Oppong-Peprah’s tribute lingered: a reminder that leadership is measured not just in orders given, but in lives touched and missions fulfilled.
The loss of Dr Omane Boamah and the three soldiers leaves a void in Ghana’s defence community — one that will be felt in strategy rooms, training fields, and the quiet camaraderie of military service.
Yet, their legacy, built on service, skill, and sacrifice, will endure in the institution they served so faithfully.
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