The Builsa Traditional Council has submitted a proposal to the Ghana Armed Forces (GAF) calling for the 12th Mechanised Military Barracks in Sandema in the Builsa North Municipality in the Upper East Region, to be renamed in honour of the late Squadron Leader Peter Abaafemi Anala, who died in a helicopter crash.
In a request addressed to the Chief of Defence Staff of the GAF and signed by the Paramount Chief of the Builsa Traditional Area, Nab Azagsuk Azantilow II, the Council said the proposed name, “Squadron Leader Peter Abaafemi Anala Military Barracks,” would be a fitting tribute to the late officer’s exemplary service and ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty.
According to the Council, Squadron Leader Anala was a dedicated son of Builsa whose career in the Ghana Air Force was marked by professionalism, bravery, and patriotism.
The Council said his untimely death while discharging his national duty epitomised selflessness and the risks servicemen and women endure to safeguard Ghana’s peace, security, and sovereignty.
Multiple purposes
They argued that naming the Sandema barracks after Squadron Leader Anala would serve multiple purposes, including immortalising his contributions, inspiring present and future military officers, and deepening the bond between the Armed Forces and the local community.
“It is a common and respected tradition worldwide to name military facilities after officers who have fallen in the line of duty. This gesture aligns with best practices in honouring military heroes,” the statement read.
The Council further outlined expected outcomes of the honour, including perpetual recognition of the fallen officer’s sacrifice, strengthened morale within the Armed Forces, and enhanced civil-military cooperation in the Upper East Region.
Honour
They emphasised that the honour would not only preserve the memory of Squadron Leader Anala but also demonstrate Ghana’s commitment to recognising the valour and sacrifices of its servicemen and women.
The Squadron Leader and seven others, including two Ministers of State, died in a helicopter crash at Adansi Brofoyedu in the Adansi Akrofuom District of the Ashanti Region on their way to Obuasi to launch the government’s “Responsible Cooperative Mining and Skills Development Programme” (rCOMSDEP).
The initiative is aimed at combating illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) by promoting responsible mining practices and skill development.
