Remember fallen helicopter heroes for how they lived, not how they died – Mahama

President John Dramani Mahama has called on Ghanaians to remember the eight victims of last year’s military helicopter crash for their selfless service to the nation rather than the tragic circumstances of their deaths.

His remarks came at the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service held on Wednesday to mark the first anniversary of the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of Defence Minister Dr Edward Kofi Omane Boamah; Environment, Science, Technology and Innovation Minister Dr Ibrahim Murtala Muhammed; Acting Deputy National Security Coordinator Alhaji Muniru Mohammed Limuna; National Democratic Congress Vice Chairman Samuel Sarpong; former parliamentary candidate Samuel Aboagye; Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala; Flying Officer Manaen Twum Ampadu; and Sergeant Ernest Addo Mensah while they were on official national duty.

Delivering the keynote address, President Mahama said the memorial was not intended to reopen the nation’s wounds but to celebrate lives that were dedicated to Ghana.

“Today, we gather not to relive that pain, but to give it meaning. We gather because remembrance is an obligation for every grateful nation.”

He said remembering those who sacrificed for the country was essential to preserving Ghana’s national values and identity.

“A country that forgets those who served it slowly forgets the values on which it is built. Memory, therefore, is not simply about looking backwards. It is an act of national character and value.”

President Mahama noted that although the eight departed heroes came from different professions and backgrounds, they shared an unwavering commitment to serving the nation.

“The eight Ghanaians we honor today came from diverse backgrounds and diverse professions. They had different dreams, different personalities, and different stories. And yet they were united by one common purpose. They answered the call to serve God and country.”

He urged Ghanaians to ensure that the legacy of the departed continues to inspire future generations, stressing that they should be remembered for the values they embodied rather than the tragedy that ended their lives.

“The names of these eight faithful servants will forever occupy a special place in the story of our nation. Not because of the manner in which they died, but because of the spirit with which they lived and served God and country.”

President Mahama expressed hope that the sacrifice of the eight heroes would strengthen the nation’s resolve to build a better Ghana founded on integrity, duty and selfless service.