President John Mahama has posthumously promoted three Ghana Air Force officers who perished in the August 6 helicopter crash, describing the gesture as a "small but meaningful recognition of their courage, professionalism, and selfless service." 

The late Squadron Leader Peter Bafemi Anala, Flying Officer Manean Twum Ampadu, and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah were elevated in rank during a state funeral at Black Star Square in Accra on Friday.

Squadron Leader Anala was promoted to Wing Commander, Flying Officer Ampadu to Flight Lieutenant, and Sergeant Mensah to Flight Sergeant. 

President Mahama stated that these promotions represent the "highest mark of respect for duty performed, even unto death," assuring that their families would receive the accompanying benefits. The Chief of Defence Staff will present the posthumous insignia to the bereaved families.

In addition to the military honours, the President announced the creation of a Children’s Support Fund to secure the futures of the victims’ children. 

The fund, which has already received an initial GH?500,000 donation from Stanbic Bank, will cover education, healthcare, and essential living expenses. The government will operationalise the fund within 30 days and establish channels for public and corporate contributions.

"Let us leave our eight comrades today with a promise that their children will not be alone," Mahama urged, invoking the spirit of communal responsibility. 

The crash, one of Ghana’s deadliest military aviation incidents, also claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Environment Minister Dr. Ibrahim Murtala Mohammed, and three civilians, who will be posthumously recognised at the next national honours ceremony.

The President expressed gratitude to emergency responders, religious leaders, and international dignitaries for their support, praying for national healing. "May God continue to bless our homeland Ghana and make our nation great and strong," he concluded.