By Belinda Nketia
The Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) will tomorrow, Friday, August 15, 2025, hold a full military funeral at the Black Star Square for the eight victims who died in the tragic helicopter crash on August 6, 2025.
Air Commodore Thomas Niifio Okai, Director General of Human Resources at the GAF General Headquarters, briefed the media on preparations, saying the ceremony will be “essentially military in nature” and led by the Ghana Armed Forces Chaplaincy with support from selected civilian clergy.
“Our responsibility is to move our fallen heroes from the morgue to the Black Star Square for the service and then to the Military Cemetery for burial,” he said. “Burying six heroes at the same time is not the same as burying just one person. There will be unique arrangements and innovations to ensure they are accorded the highest state respect possible.”
The solemn event will feature military honours, including casket processions draped in the national flag, ceremonial guards, and gun salutes. After the service, the cortege will proceed to the Military Cemetery, where final rites will be performed.
Air Commodore Okai appealed for public cooperation to maintain discipline and order at both the Black Star Square and the cemetery. “We don’t want a situation where people are walking in areas they are not supposed to be. Let us all ensure the highest form of discipline,” he urged.
