The Builsa Traditional Council has submitted a proposal to the Ghana Armed Forces, requesting that the newly established 12th Mechanised Military Barracks in Sandema be named in honour of Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala, a native of the area who tragically lost his life in the recent military helicopter crash.
The proposal, dated August 13 and addressed to the Chief of Defence Staff, was signed by Nab Azagsuk Azantilow II, the Paramount Chief of the Builsa Traditional Area, on behalf of the chiefs and people of Buluk in the Upper East Region.
“The late Squadron Leader Peter Baafemi Anala was a distinguished son of Bulsa and a dedicated officer of the Ghana Air Force whose career was marked by professionalism, bravery, and unwavering loyalty to the Republic,” the Council stated in the proposal.
Squadron Leader Anala was one of the eight victims of the August 6, 2025, helicopter crash, which claimed the lives of senior military and government officials en route to an anti-illegal mining event in Obuasi. The tragedy, described by President Mahama as a national heartbreak, has sparked widespread tributes across the country.
In its justification, the Council outlined several key reasons for the naming proposal:
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Recognition of Service: Naming the barracks after Anala would immortalise his contribution to the Armed Forces and stand as a national symbol of gratitude.
Inspiration for Future Generations: The Council believes that a military installation bearing his name would inspire younger officers and recruits to emulate his values of courage, patriotism, and duty.
Promotion of National and Local Pride: The tribute would strengthen the bond between the Ghana Armed Forces and the communities they serve, fostering civil-military cooperation and national unity.
Military Tradition: The Council cited global and national military traditions that honour fallen heroes through the naming of facilities, calling it a fitting and respectful gesture.
The Council recommends that the barracks be officially named:
“Squadron Leader Peter Abaafemi Anala Military Barracks”
“The life, service, and sacrifice of Squadron Leader Anala should serve as a permanent source of inspiration,” the proposal concluded, urging the Ghana Armed Forces to consider the request not just as a local appeal, but as a national recognition of heroism.
If approved, the naming would mark a historic moment for the Builsa community and a powerful tribute to one of its own who gave his life in service to Ghana.
Squadron Leader Anala was laid to rest with full military honours on August 15, alongside five other crash victims, at the Military Cemetery in Tse Addo.
Meanwhile, President John Dramani Mahama has conferred posthumous promotions on three Ghana Air Force personnel who lost their lives in the August 6 military helicopter crash, honouring what he described as their “service and sacrifice to the nation.”
Squadron Leader Anala has been elevated to Wing Commander; Flying Officer Twum-Ampadu promoted to Flight Lieutenant; and Sergeant Mensah promoted to Flight Sergeant.
