Ghana Navy Remembers Departed Colleagues

The Ghana Navy on Friday held a memorial service for naval personnel who lost their lives in line of various authorized duties both home and abroad.

A number of naval personnel have paid the ultimate price both on internal and external operations in the pursuit of global peace and security and it was in the memory and honour of these fallen heroes that the Armed Forces High Command allowed the Ghana Navy to set aside September 14 every year to commemorate the life and achievement of the fallen comrades.

The Rear Admiral Peter Kofi Faidoo, Chief of Naval Staff said it was prudent for them to remember such gallant men who voluntarily or on order gave themselves to the service of Ghana but could not return home to earn the title, 'Retired'.

He said, 'Our country called and they answered, some volunteered, but no matter how each of them found their way into the ranks of the Navy, each took it upon himself to serve faithfully and to their fullest…their acts are commendable as they accepted the inherent risks that come with the wearing of the uniform'.

Rear Admiral Faidoo said the memorial service was therefore an opportunity to remember naval officers and ratings particularly the infamous shelling of GNS YOGAGA in Liberia on September 14, 1990 and those who were callously murdered in the base on February 4, 1982 as well as those who died in peace keeping missions throughout the world.

"It is said that barely some eight hours after their arrival at Liberia, their ship came under mortar attack from one of the factions involved in the civil war resulting in the death of the gallant officers and sailors".

'Our memorial service is to assure families of our continual appreciation for the service rendered by these fallen heroes and inspire the younger generation to continue on their path in selfless defence of peace, both globally and in our dear country, knowing that they died for a good cause'.

Dr Kwaku Afriyie, the Western Regional Minister said the government recognise with pride not only the supreme sacrifices of the fallen heroes but also the selfless contributions of men and women in uniform to international peace and security.

He said the government would continue to address most of the administrative challenges of the service to enable them to give of their best.

'It is my fervent prayer that this service occasion of remembrance will inspire all of us to rededicate ourselves to the service of humanity with courage and love as demonstrated by these gallant men'.