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Seventy-three officers from the Short Service Commission and Special Duties Intake 61 have officially joined the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) after a rigorous six-month training program at the Ghana Military Academy (GMA). This significant milestone, marked by a commissioning ceremony, symbolizes the start of their journey to serve and protect Ghana.
The training, which began in June 2024, included 76 cadets, with 35 assigned to the Army, 15 to the Navy, and 26 to the Air Force. However, three cadets were unable to complete the program due to medical reasons, leaving a final intake of 73 officers. This intensive course combined theoretical knowledge with practical military exercises, shaping the cadets into disciplined leaders ready to address the demands of modern military service.
During the graduation ceremony held at the GMA, several cadets received special recognition for their outstanding performances. Junior Under Officer Yaro Mohammed-Keilan was honored with the Chief of Defence Staff Award, Cadet Sergeant Gyamfi Samuel Ameyaw earned the Commandant Award, and Cadet Corporal Wuni Nadia Isabelle was celebrated as the Best Female Cadet.
President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, who presided over the event as the reviewing officer, praised the graduates for their resilience and dedication. He commended the precision and discipline displayed during the parade, emphasizing that their achievements reflected the GMA’s high standards.
"Today, these fine cadets represent the enduring ethos of the Ghana Military Academy," the President remarked. He also acknowledged the academy's role in producing officers who embody the values of duty, sacrifice, and service despite the challenges faced.
The President highlighted Ghana’s dynamic security landscape, citing issues such as illegal mining, environmental degradation, and the growing threat of terrorism in the region. He reassured attendees of the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the armed forces through initiatives like Forward Operating Bases in all 16 regions and investments in advanced military equipment, including armored vehicles, surveillance tools, and aircraft.
Ghana's contributions to international peacekeeping were also celebrated. As the sixth-largest troop-contributing nation to United Nations peace missions, Ghana currently has 2,600 personnel deployed in various conflict zones. President Akufo-Addo urged the newly commissioned officers to uphold this legacy of service, emphasizing the importance of integrity, vision, and courage in their roles.
The ceremony, as reported by Graphic Online (November 23, 2024), underscored the commitment of the Ghana Armed Forces to maintaining peace, security, and the nation’s sovereignty while inspiring the next generation of military leaders.
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