On Friday, September 25, Air Marshal Michael Samson‑Oje, a member of the Council of State, spoke as Guest of Honour at a send‑off parade for eight retiring senior military officers. He urged the veterans to view retirement from active service as the beginning of another chapter, not the end of their national service.
During the ceremony, Samson‑Oje highlighted the officers’ wealth of experience, wisdom and strategic insight, noting that their counsel, mentorship and guidance would continue to benefit Ghana, especially in shaping the next generation of military leaders.
He praised the Ghana Armed Forces for organising what he described as the first ceremony specifically dedicated to honouring retiring generals, calling it a bold affirmation that dedicated and self‑less service does not go unnoticed. He urged the institution to maintain the tradition for future generations.
Samson‑Oje also acknowledged the officers’ contributions beyond their professional duties, including participation in international peace‑support operations in Lebanon, Chad, Liberia, Sudan, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Côte d’Ivoire and South Sudan. He said their professionalism in conflict‑affected regions helped bring peace and stability to war‑torn communities.
He concluded by wishing the retiring generals good health, peace and fulfilment, and urged them to continue using their experience to benefit their families, communities and the nation.
Air Vice Marshal Joshua Mensah Larkai, Chief of Staff at Ghana Armed Forces Headquarters, echoed the sentiment, describing the parade as a historic occasion that provided a dignified transition for senior officers who had risen to the highest levels of military leadership.
The ceremony, attended by senior officials and family members, underscored the discipline, bravery and professionalism the generals had instilled in the armed forces, leaving a strong foundation for the institution’s future.
