Ghana came to a standstill on Friday, August 15, as six of the eight victims of the August 6 military helicopter crash were laid to rest in Accra with full military honours.
The state funeral, held at Black Star Square, drew President John Dramani Mahama, government officials, service chiefs, religious leaders, and thousands of grieving citizens who gathered to pay their last respects.
The interfaith service, blending Christian, Islamic, and military traditions, captured the spirit of a country united in grief.
The fallen included Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, NDC National Vice Chairman Dr. Samuel Sarpong, former Obuasi East parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye, Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum-Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah.
Two others — Minister for Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation, Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator, Alhaji Limuna Muniru Mohammed — had earlier been buried in accordance with Islamic customs.
In his tribute, President Mahama described the tragedy as “a loss that has shaken the soul of the nation.”
He announced posthumous promotions for the three military officers and the creation of a special fund to support the families and children left behind.
From emotional family farewells to official eulogies, tributes poured in celebrating the courage, service, and sacrifice of the departed.
As the six flag-draped coffins were lowered into the ground at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo, a 21-gun salute echoed across Accra — the final honour for men who died in service to their country.
