850 peacekeepers receive peace medals

The United Nations has recognised the tremendous contributions Ghanaian peacekeepers are making towards the maintenance of lasting peace and security in Liberia with the presentation of peace medals to the peacekeepers.

A sublime form of military ceremonial parade was held at the Battalion Headquarters (Voice of America Premises) Careysburg on Friday, January 19, 2007, to commemorate the day. The parade was commanded by Lt Col Francis Vib-Sanziri, the Commanding Officer UNMIL GHANBATT 5.

On parade to mark this historic day were 17 officers and 200 men drawn from Alpha, Bravo, Charlie and Support Companies together with the GHANBATT Band.

Marching in slow time before changing into quick time, the first and forth contingents changed into an arrow-head formation. This formation clearly depicts the tip of an arrow. The second and the third contingents also changed into diamond formation, just like the shape of a diamond.

The skillful manner in which the contingents suddenly changed into these formations instantly attracted series of applause from hundreds of staff of the United Nations Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), some Ghanaians resident in the country as well as some Liberians who came to grace the occasion.

Also at the parade was a seven-member Government delegation led by the Deputy Minister for Defence, Honourable William Ofori Boafo. Ghana’s Ambassador to Liberia, His Excellency Maj Gen Adu Amanfo, was not left out of the celebration.

Addressing the parade, the Special Representative of the Secretary General (SRSG) in Liberia, His Excellency, Mr Alan Doss, lauded the Ghana Armed Forces for her distinguished record in United Nations peacekeeping. Mr Doss said the force has

recognised the commendable role the Ghanaian troops had played before and during the operations of the force.

He was of the view that the dedication and services of Ghanaian soldiers have contributed towards UNMIL’s principle of maintaining a stable and peaceful environment in Liberia.

“Our job is not finished. One year ago, Liberians witnessed the inauguration of the democratically elected president in many years. We have witnessed significant progress since 2003 but we must continue to be vigilant and work hard to provide a secure environment in order to allow the recovery of Liberia to go forward. The Ghana contingent forms a vital part of that continuing responsibility and we shall depend heavily on your support to ensure stability,” he stressed.

Mr Doss said each peacekeeper owed a foundamental duty of care to the people of Liberia, especially to the women and children of Liberia. He, therefore, urged all to strictly adhere to the Secretary General’s policy of zero tolerance for sexual abuse and exploitation. He asked troops to be of good behaviour and work hard towards maintaining the respect and trust of the Liberian people.

The SRSG paid special tribute to the Ghanaian Contingent Commander who is also the UNMIL Chief of Staff, Brig Gen John Kwaku Forkuo, for his excellent leadership and to all members of the contingent for their support.

In appreciation of God’s favours and graces bestowed on the Battalion and also forming part of the medals presentation ceremony, a thanksgiving church service was organised at the Battalion Headquarters on Sunday, January 21, 2007.

Addressing troops later during a durbar, the Deputy Minister of Defence, Honourable William Ofori Boafo urged troops to be proud of their profession, adding that they must equally ensure that the institution they belonged to succeed in advancing its objectives. He later outlined Government’s programme of action for the Armed

Forces which include housing units, potable water and purchase of equipment to facilitate the operational activities of troops.