Story by F/Sgt Aidoo Obed and Nana Kofi Agyeman
Photos by WOI Apedido Frank and ACl Ankomah Robert Peters

The Ghana Air Force (GHAF) on Friday, 25 September 2026, held a passing-out parade for Recruit Course 1/2026 at the Air Force Recruit Training School (AFRTS), Air Force Base Takoradi.

The parade marked the successful completion of 26 weeks of intensive basic military training by 293 recruits, who took the Armed Forces Oath and were formally integrated into the Service.

Delivering his address, the Reviewing Officer and Commander, Air Force Training Command (AFTRAC), Air Commodore Richard Danso, described the parade as a momentous occasion in the lives of the new airmen and airwomen.

He expressed confidence that the 26 weeks of training had instilled in the recruits the team spirit, cooperation, mental robustness, fortitude, confidence and stamina required to pursue successful military careers.

Air Commodore Danso noted that the Military High Command and the Government of Ghana placed a high premium on the welfare of personnel and continued to work towards improving their conditions of service.

He reminded the recruits that, as military personnel, they were expected to dedicate themselves to the noble profession of arms by upholding the values of discipline, loyalty to the country, dedication to duty and selfless sacrifice in service to the nation.

The Reviewing Officer further reminded them that their basic military training was only the foundation for the responsibilities ahead. He therefore urged them to approach their assigned duties at their respective bases with zeal, commitment and a willingness to learn.

Air Commodore Danso also urged the recruits to reflect deeply on the Oath of Allegiance administered to them, stressing that they would remain bound by its obligations throughout their careers in the Ghana Armed Forces.

He commended the Commanding Officer of AFRTS, instructors, administrative staff and other stakeholders for their dedication and contribution to the successful training of the recruits.

As part of the ceremony, Recruit Course 1/2026 treated guests to a spectacular military drill display, after which awards were presented to recruits who distinguished themselves during the training.

Recruit Yeboah Samuel Amofa received the award for Best in Drill, while Recruit Arthur Michael and Recruit Tonyie Sabien were adjudged Best in Tactics and Best in Weapon Training respectively.

Recruit Dauda Iddrisu and Recruit Salisu Eunice received the Best in Physical Training awards in the male and female categories respectively. Recruit Ampadu Christabel Asantewaa emerged as Best in Academics and was also adjudged the Overall Best Recruit, earning the Chief of the Air Staff Award.

The award winners received plaques and other prizes sponsored by Services Integrity Savings and Loans. Other recruits and squadrons that distinguished themselves in various competitions during the training period were also recognised.

Present at the ceremony were the 2 Garrison Commander, Commodore Stephen Billins Nyam, Flag Officer Commanding Naval Logistics Command (NAVLOC), Commodore Eric Osei, Base Commander, Air Force Base Takoradi, Group Captain Kwabena Krampah Antwi, Support Group Commander, Group Captain Ransford Odenkey Abbey and Commanding Officer, Air Force Recruit Training School, Lieutenant Colonel Benoni Nii Ayi Okine.

Also present were the Master Air Warrant Officer (MAWO), Master Warrant Officer Amponsem Edward, members of the Western Regional Security Council, Nananom, senior officers, officers, Non-Commissioned Officers, Defence Civilian Staff, invited guests and members of the general public.