The President of the Republic and Commander-In-Chief of the Ghana Armed Forces, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, on Friday, November 29, 2024, presented Aviator Wings or Air Crew Badges and Awards to twelve pilots at the Ghana Air Force Base during the 2024 Wings Parade.

The new pilots, who received their honours upon completing the required 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, and Fg Offr Isaac Tuobewere Tanle.

The rest are 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, and Fg Offr. Julius Etroo.

President Akufo-Addo, attending as the reviewing officer, stated that upon the completion of the rigorous journey of the new pilots, the country is reminded of the Ghana Air Force's essential role in safeguarding our sovereignty and advancing our nation's development.

He charged the new Wing Officers to make the Ghana Air Force a 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 challenges, but I am confident that you will rise to the occasion with courage, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to our great Republic," he said.

President Akufo-Addo commended the new officers for their accomplishments, noting that it reflected not only their technical and professional prowess but also their perseverance, resilience, and commitment to excellence.

He emphasised the government's commitment to retooling and modernising the Ghana Armed Forces to ensure they are equipped to carry out their mandate with precision and efficiency.

President Akufo-Addo highlighted recent investments in the Armed Forces, particularly in enhancing the operational capacity of the Ghana Air Force.

He mentioned the refurbishment of the fleet and the planned procurement of advanced fighter aircraft as steps towards realising the vision of a "Smart Air Force."

The president praised 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 also emphasised the Air Force's versatility and value to the nation.

Flt. Lt. Christopher Yaw Asuka received the Speed Bird Trophy for achieving the highest standard in flying and airmanship, as well as the JE Barnor Award for outstanding flying skills on rotary wing aircraft.

Flt. Lt. Abdul-Baasit Salifu also received the JA Bruce Award for outstanding flying skills on fixed-wing aircraft.



MA