President Akufo-Addo, Commander-in-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF), has presented Aviator Wings or Air Crew Badges and awards to twelve pilots at the 2024 Wings Parade held at the Ghana Air Force Base.
The new pilots, who received their honours upon completing the requisite training, are:
Flt. Lt. Christopher Yaw Asuka
Flt. Lt. Wisdom Seshie Deku
Flt. Lt. Akrashie Appoe
Fg. Offr. Papa Kojo Ayensu Abrokwa
Fg. Offr. Manaen Twum Ampadu
Fg. Offr. Isaac Tuobewere Tanle
Flt. Lt. Abdul-Baasit Salifu
Flt. Lt. Michael Adjei-Banin
Flt. Lt. Obil Paa Kwesi Grant
Fg. Offr. Selase Akotia
Fg. Offr. David Afo-Kangah
Fg. Offr. Julius Etroo
Addressing the gathering as the reviewing officer, President Akufo-Addo remarked that the culmination of the rigorous training journey by the new pilots serves as a reminder of the “Ghana Air Force’s indispensable role in safeguarding our sovereignty and advancing the developmental aspirations of our beloved nation.”
He urged the new Wing Officers to make the Ghana Air Force an enduring symbol of strength, resilience, and progress.
“You carry with you the hopes and expectations of a grateful nation. The path ahead will not be without its challenges, but I am confident that you will rise to the occasion with courage, integrity, and an unyielding commitment to our great Republic,” he said.
Commending their accomplishments, the President described the achievements of the officers as not merely a reflection of technical and professional prowess but as proof of their perseverance, resilience, and commitment to excellence.
He also emphasized the government’s commitment to the retooling and modernization of the Ghana Armed Forces, ensuring they are equipped to execute their mandate with precision and efficiency.
“In recent years, we have prioritized investments in the Armed Forces, with specific attention to enhancing the operational capacity of the Ghana Air Force,” he noted.
He added that the refurbishment of the fleet and the planned procurement of advanced fighter aircraft mark significant strides toward realizing the vision of a “Smart Air Force” poised to defend Ghana’s territorial airspace while contributing meaningfully to national development.
The President also lauded the Air Force for its contributions beyond its military mandate, such as disaster relief, search and rescue operations, and support for critical national infrastructure. He underscored their collaboration with entities like the Volta River Authority and Ghana Gas in safeguarding the nation’s energy infrastructure.
Additionally, he highlighted the Air Force’s role in facilitating national elections by ensuring the seamless transport of personnel and electoral materials.
Awards:
Flt. Lt. Christopher Yaw Asuka received the Speed Bird Trophy for attaining the highest standard in flying and airmanship, as well as the J.E. Barnor Award for demonstrating the most outstanding flying skills on rotary-wing aircraft.
Flt. Lt. Abdul-Baasit Salifu was presented with the J.A. Bruce Award for showcasing the most outstanding flying skills on fixed-wing aircraft.
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