By Joyce Kantam Kolamong
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), has graduated 36 commandos from the Basic Commando Course 1-25, held at the 69th Airborne Force Base in Tamale. This followed four months of vigorous conventional and jungle training, after which they earned the right to wear the Converted Commando Badge. General Officer Commanding Northern Command, Brigadier General Franklyn Worlanyo Agbebo, emphasized that the role of Special Operations Forces has never been more urgent, given the transnational threats, terrorism, and irregular warfare facing the country.
The passing out parade saw the newly graduated commandos giving the gathering a sneak peek into what they stood for. The demonstration depicted Ghana Armed Forces’ response to rising security threats in northern Ghana caused by cross-border crime and violent extremism from the Sahel. Despite Ghana’s stability, criminal networks threaten peace through ambushes and kidnappings. The special commando unit showcased its tactics in counter-ambush operations, medical evacuation, and VIP protection. During the drill, commandos used cover, maintained communication, and performed tactical casualty care before evacuation. The second phase of the drill demonstrated close protection of a regional minister, emphasizing alertness, teamwork, and disciplined execution under threat. Overall, the exercise highlighted GAF’s readiness, professionalism, and commitment to protecting national security and civilian safety.
In his welcome address, Commander, Army Special Operations Brigade, Brigadier General Richard Kainyi Mensah, congratulated the graduating commandos on their achievement, noting that they had completed one of the most demanding military training programmes in the Ghana Armed Forces. He emphasized that the training was designed to instill resilience, adaptability, and leadership qualities required to operate in any terrain, under any circumstance, and against any adversary.
“It is a crucible through which ordinary soldiers are transformed into extraordinary commandos, capable, confident, and unyielding in the face of adversity. The course has been designed to push the human body and mind to the limit. Over the past several weeks, these gallant men have been tested through physically punishing tasks, mentally demanding challenges, and intense tactical scenarios, from long-range patrols to survival, evasion, resistance, and escape. These young warriors have earned the right to wear the Converted Commando Badge. The road has not been easy, but it was never meant to be. The rigor of this course is intentional, for we must only trust our most sensitive and most daring missions to those who have been thoroughly refined in fire,” Brigadier General Richard Kainyi Mensah indicated.
General Officer Commanding Northern Command, Brigadier General Franklyn Worlanyo Agbebo, who was the guest of honor, commended the graduating commandos on their achievement, noting that they had demonstrated exceptional courage, determination, and commitment to service. He emphasized that the role of Special Operations Forces has never been more urgent, given the transnational threats faced by the country. He urged the graduating commandos to strive for excellence and to continue to develop their skills and abilities, adding that they are now part of an elite group of soldiers equipped to adapt, lead, and prevail in any operational environment.
“The world is unpredictable, and the challenges you will face are unparalleled. Whether in the shadows of the jungle, the chaos of a city, or the uncharted complexities of future conflicts, you are now equipped to adapt, lead, and prevail. You are not just soldiers; you are problem solvers, innovators, and guardians of our commitment, of our communities, regions, and the nation. In an era marked by transnational threats, terrorism, and irregular warfare, illicit drug trafficking, and hybrid conflicts, the need for Special Operations Forces has never been more urgent than now. The Army Special Operations Brigade remains a critical pillar in Ghana’s counter-terrorism and rapid response architecture,” Brigadier General Franklyn Worlanyo Agbebo emphasized.
Overall Best Commando went to 2nd Lt. Ebo Ameyaw Lartey for earning the distinction of exceptional performance and outstanding resilience. The commandos were later honored with the Converted Commando Badge.
