The three fallen members of the Ghana Air Force involved in the Adansi helicopter crash on August 6 have received posthumous promotions in recognition of their service to the country.

Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, His Excellency President John Dramani Mahama announced their promotion while speaking at the state funeral held at the Black Star Square on Friday, August 15, 2025.

Squadron Leader Peter Analaa, Flying Officer Tsum Ampadu and Sergeant Ernest Addo all of the Ghana Air Force, have been promoted posthumously, elevating them to their next ranks as a tribute to their commitment, professionalism, and sacrifice.

Their new ranks are Wing Commander Peter Baafemi Anala, Flight Lieutenant Manaen Twum Ampadu, and Flight Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest.

The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) described the trio as gallant officers whose service to Ghana will continue to inspire future generations.

“Their service lives on. Their legacy stands tall,” the GAF stated in a circular announcing their promotion.

Biography of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala (GH/4281)

Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was born on 2 November 1989. He hailed from Siniensi, in the Builsa North District of the Upper East Region, and was the youngest child of Paul Oscar Anala and Lucy Apung Anala. He spent his formative years in Tamale, where his family resided.

Even in his early years, it was evident that Peter possessed a keen interest in technical skills. None could have foreseen that the vibrant young boy would one day serve his nation with such selflessness and dedication, ultimately paying the ultimate price.

As fate would have it, Peter began his primary and junior secondary education at Barwah Barracks, home to the Air Force Base in Tamale. He later attended St James Seminary/ Secondary School, where his discipline and academic excellence flourished. He often likened his alma mater to a military training camp, reflecting the profound impact it had on shaping his character. Upon graduating from St James, Peter pursued a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering at the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST), graduating in 2012.

He went on to obtain a Master of Science in Air Transport and Aviation Management from the same institution in 2023. At the time of his passing, he was pursuing postgraduate studies in Safety and Accident Investigation in the United Kingdom. Within his community, Peter was known as someone who never forgot his roots.

Whether mentoring young people, advising friends, or assisting neighbours, he consistently sought to uplift others. His generosity extended beyond words, he was a man of action who believed that service to God and humanity was the highest calling. Though his career in the Ghana Air Force brought him recognition as a skilledpilot and dedicated officer, Peter’s true legacy lies in the relationships he built and the lives he touched.

His integrity, kindness, and unassuming nature endeared him to all.Peter is survived by his wife, Ursula Wematu Asaghedewe, and their daughter. Despite the demands of his career, family remained thecornerstone of his life.

He loved them deeply and spoke of them with warmth and pride to all who would listen A baptised and confirmed Catholic, Peter held deep devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary. His faith guided his principles and approach to life, and he remained steadfast in it until the very end. Peter’s legacy stands as an enduring example of bravery, academic excellence, and patriotic sacrifice. His life epitomised dedication to family, faith and nation.

We join his family, church, and community in mourning this great loss. We celebrate the life of a man who, though gone too soon, lived fully and left an indelible mark on every heart he encountered.May his soul rest in perfect peace.

Biography of F/O Manaen Twum Ampadu (GH/5426)

Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu, affectionately known as Papa Twum or Paa Tee, was born on January 7, 1995, in Accra to Rev. MacDouglas Emmanuel Ampadu of Aduama and Mrs. Patience Adjeley Ampadu Ablorh of Teshie.

Born into royal lineage from the Etena clan of Abene, he was named after his paternal grandfather, Isaac Kwadjo Mensah Twum. He was raised in Aburi, where his mother worked at the Presbyterian Women’s College of Education (PWCE), Manaen was the elder of two siblings.

He began his education at Chrisland International School (Aburi) and later attended Deks Preparatory International (Tema), DeBright International, and Feberck International (Nungua) before returning to Deks International to complete his Junior High School education. Manaem continued his education at Presbyterian Secondary Technical (PST), Aburi, where he developed a keen interest in Geography.

He proceeded to Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology(KNUST), earning a Bachelor of Arts in Geography andRural Development (Second Class Upper Division, 2017). During his studies, he interned at Ghana Civil Aviation Authority and later completed his national service there.

He was driven by his childhood dream of becoming a pilot, Manaem enlisted in the Ghana Military Academy in 2020. A devoted son, brother, and friend, Manaen valued family above all. His marriage on 27 April 2024 to Naval Lieutenant Awura Adjao Kumi-Kyere marked a new and joyful chapter in his life.

He embraced his role as a husband with the same commitment and tenderness that characterised all his relationships. Faith was the cornerstone of Manaen’s life. Baptised in 2002 under his father’sministry, he was a devout Fundamental Baptist and an active member of Set Time Baptist Church, where he served as his father’s armour bearer on evangelism missions.

His leadership extended to serving as President of the Fundamental Baptist Students Fellowship (KNUST). His compassion for the less fortunate was evident in his supportfor Zion Helping Hand, a charity aiding children in rural communities, and his contributions to Jesus’ Kitchen, feeding the homeless.

Beyond his faith and family commitments, Manaen was known for his humility, diligence, and adventurous spirit. He loved football, reading, computer games, and sightseeing, often bringing joy and laughter to those around him. Friends and colleagues remember his willingness to help, his encouraging words, and his unwavering moral compass.

Although he fulfilled a childhood dream by joining the Ghana Air Force and training as a pilot, flying was only one aspect of his rich and purposeful life. Whether in the cockpit, at home, in church, or among friends, Manaen’s life was defined by service, love, and integrity.

His passing is a profound loss to his family, the Ghana Armed Forces, and the nation, but his influence lives on in the countless lives he touched. As written in 1 Thessalonians 4:16–17, we hold fast to the promise that “the Lord Himself will descend with a shout… and the dead in Christ shall rise first.” Rest well, Papa Twum.Your race is run, but your light will shine forever in our hearts.

Biography of Sergeant Mensah Addo Ernest (202154)

It is often said that the hour of death cannot be foretold. Though we acknowledge this truth, we tend to believe such a moment lies far ahead.

Never did we imagine that we would gather today to remember and mourn Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah, whose earthly remains lie before us, having fallen in the line of duty while serving our beloved Mother Ghana.

Born on 5 July 1988 in Accra to the late Ex-WOI Emmanuel Mensah Ashaiquaye and the late Victoria Abla Morkey, Ernest hailed from La Abafum Quarter in the Greater Accra Region and Ehi in the Ketu North District of the Volta Region. After the loss of his parents, Rev. Chief Supt.

Stella Ama Katso Anku lovingly assumed a motherly role, nurturing and guiding him through life. From an early age, Ernest carried a quiet strength, humility, and a heart devoted to faith, family, and service, a legacy that would remain constant throughout his years.

He began his education at La Emmaus Presbyterian Primary (A&B) School and continued at La Enobal “2” Junior High School from 2001 to 2004. He later pursued studies at Emit Electronic Institute from 2004 to 2007, where his interest in technical and mechanical work first blossomed.

Friends and teachers recall a young man who embodied honesty, respect, and kindness, who listened intently, spoke thoughtfully, and readily offered help to others.

Ernest was a man who treasured relationships. His marriage to Miss Mercy Amoah on 5 July 2025 was a joyous celebration of love, witnessed by family and friends. Though their union was heartbreakingly short, it was built on deep affection, mutual respect, and shared hopes for the future.

A devoted Christian, Ernest was baptised and confirmed in theEvangelical Presbyterian Church, South La Estate, and later worshipped at the Presby Methodist Church in Takoradi. His life was anchored in an unwavering faith in Christ Jesus, and his greatest desire was for his loved ones to come to a saving knowledge of the Lord.

He lived with eternity in view, carrying himself with humility and discipline as a true servant of God. In his community, Ernest was a source of warmth, generosity, and encouragement. His ready smile,kind words, and genuine concern for others made him a cherished figure among neighbours and friends.

He was the person people turned to in times of need and he is always willing to lend a hand, often going out of his way to help without expecting anything in return. Although Ernest dedicated fourteen years of his life to the Ghana Armed Forces and served with skill and professionalism, his true legacy lies in the lives he touched beyond the uniform.

He lived a life of warmth, kindness, and genuine engagement withpeople from all walks of life. His ever-present smile warmed hearts, and his kind words and concern for others made him a cherished figure in his neighborhood and beyond.

He never hesitated to help those in distress, often going out of his way to assist anyone in need. His generosity of spirit and compassionate nature were a gift to all who knew him. His love for God, devotion to family, and compassion for humanity remain the hallmarks of his life.

Rest in perfect peace, faithful servant. Your work on earth is done, and your crown awaits in glory.