By Kekeli K. Blamey
Adidome (V/R), July 5, GNA – The Veterans Administration, Ghana (VAG) has commended the Government for naming two newly constructed military barracks after two of Ghana’s most distinguished military officers, describing the decision as a fitting recognition of their exceptional service to the nation and the international community.
The two facilities, located at Dambai in the Oti Region and Ajumako Asiam in the Central Region, have been named Fort Anyidoho and Erskine Barracks in honour of Major General Henry Kwami Anyidoho and the late Lieutenant General Emmanuel Alexander Erskine, respectively.
A statement issued by the Veterans Administration, Ghana, and signed by its Public Relations Officer, Ex-Warrant Officer I Bright Segbefia, said the gesture demonstrated the Government’s commitment to preserving the legacy of gallant military officers whose sacrifices had brought honour to Ghana.
According to the statement, Fort Anyidoho was named after Major General Henry Kwami Anyidoho in recognition of his remarkable leadership as Deputy Force Commander of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Rwanda (UNAMIR) during the 1994 Rwandan Genocide.
It said the retired General’s courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to humanity contributed to saving thousands of innocent lives during one of the darkest periods in modern history, making his service one of Ghana’s proudest contributions to international peacekeeping.
The statement said the barracks at Ajumako Asiam was named Erskine Barracks in honour of the late Lieutenant General Emmanuel Alexander Erskine, the first Force Commander of the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).
It described Lieutenant General Erskine as a trailblazer whose exemplary leadership helped establish Ghana’s enviable reputation in global peacekeeping operations and inspired generations of military personnel.
The statement further noted that both officers were recipients of Ghana’s Distinguished Service Order (DSO), the nation’s highest military honour. They were also decorated with prestigious international awards for gallantry, distinguished service, and outstanding contributions to global peace and security.
The Veterans Administration expressed profound appreciation to President John Dramani Mahama, the Government of Ghana, the Ministry of Defence and the Military High Command for what it described as a historic and inspiring decision.
“It is very heartwarming that, even as veterans, our sacrifices while in active service are remembered and acknowledged,” the statement said.
The Administration said immortalising the two distinguished officers reaffirmed the nation’s commitment to preserving the rich heritage of sacrifice, courage, patriotism and selfless service that defines the Ghana Armed Forces.
It expressed the hope that the recognition would inspire younger generations of Ghanaians and serving military personnel to emulate the exemplary values, professionalism and dedication demonstrated by the two military icons throughout their distinguished careers.
GNA
Edited by Maxwell Awumah /Audrey Dekalu