Ghana Holds State Burial for Eight Fallen Heroes of August 6 Helicopter Crash
Accra, Ghana – August 14, 2025
Ghana came to a standstill today as the nation accorded full state and military honours to eight gallant servicemen who perished in the August 6 Ghana Air Force helicopter crash. The solemn state burial, held at the Black Star Square in Accra, drew thousands of mourners, including top government officials, military commanders, foreign diplomats, and grieving families.
The ceremony began in the early hours of Thursday, with the arrival of the flag-draped coffins bearing the remains of the fallen officers. Six of the bodies were brought to the national square, while two will be interred in their respective hometowns in separate family-led services.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, Vice President Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, Defence Minister Dominic Nitiwul, and the Chief of Defence Staff led the tributes, praising the servicemen’s dedication, courage, and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
“These heroes died as they lived — in service to the Republic. Their memory will be etched in the history of Ghana as symbols of loyalty and sacrifice,” the President said in his eulogy.
Senior military chaplains offered prayers, while the Ghana Armed Forces ceremonial band played solemn hymns. A 21-gun salute and the haunting sound of the Last Post echoed across the square, marking the end of their earthly journey.
The Tragic Incident
The officers lost their lives when a Ghana Air Force helicopter crashed during an operational mission along the Eastern Corridor. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with aviation experts and a special military board of inquiry examining the wreckage and flight data.
Final Resting Places
Following the state rites, the remains of the servicemen will be escorted by military pallbearers to their final resting places. Six will be interred in military and hometown cemeteries today, while the remaining two will be laid to rest over the weekend in ceremonies organised by their families.
National Reflection
The state burial was attended by representatives from the diplomatic corps, traditional leaders, and ordinary citizens who travelled from across the country to bid farewell. Many wore black and red in solidarity, while others waved miniature Ghana flags in honour of the fallen.
Across the nation, flags flew at half-mast, and moments of silence were observed in schools, offices, and public spaces. Social media platforms were flooded with messages tagged #StateBurial and #FallenHeroes, underscoring the collective grief and pride of a nation united in mourning.
The ceremony not only marked a final goodbye but also reaffirmed Ghana’s enduring respect for those who give their lives in service to the Republic.
Source – My News Ghana
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