Accra, 9 August 2025 – The night air at the State House forecourt was heavy with grief, flickering candlelight, and the sound of muffled sobs. In the shadow of one of Ghana’s darkest military tragedies, former President John Dramani Mahama stood before a nation in mourning and delivered a stirring plea: turn heartbreak into unity, and sorrow into the fuel for a stronger Ghana.
The memorial, titled “Evening of Reflections and Memorial”, honoured the eight officers and crew members who lost their lives in the August 6 military helicopter crash. The event drew government officials, security service personnel, bereaved families, and citizens from all walks of life — all gathered to remember, to grieve, and to find hope in the midst of pain.
Mahama described the fallen as more than just victims of an accident.
“They were fathers, mothers, sons, daughters — committed public servants who gave their all for Ghana. They deserve more than our tears; they deserve our promise to continue their work and protect the nation they loved,” he declared.
Calling the crash a devastating blow to the country, Mahama urged Ghanaians to set aside political and social divides, warning that unity should not only emerge in times of crisis but be woven into daily life.
“Our departed would not have wanted us paralysed by grief. They would have wanted us to rise — stronger, more determined, and more united than ever before,” he added.
The memorial ceremony featured prayers, musical performances, military tributes, and moments of silence. Senior officers paid their respects, hailing their fallen colleagues as professionals of the highest calibre whose service and bravery would never be forgotten.
The fatal crash occurred during a routine mission, and while investigations continue, the loss has left a deep mark on the armed forces and the nation at large.
As the candles dimmed and the crowd slowly dispersed, Mahama’s words lingered — a solemn reminder that from the ashes of tragedy can rise a renewed spirit to protect and build Ghana together.