Ghanaian WWII hero launches global peace initiative, set to document experience and Ghana’s history in book

Ghanaian war hero, Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Joseph Ashitey Hammond, has embarked on a global peace initiative.

The initiative, launched under the auspices of the Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation, aims to spread the message of peace and reconciliation worldwide.

At a press conference held to announce the foundation's activities at the British Council on April 20, 2024, WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond expressed his deep-seated motivation for advocating peace.

Having fought in the Second World War (WWII) as a teenager, he reflected on the haunting aftermath of the conflict, stating, "After the Second World War fight, I felt my hands were full of blood."

This realization served as the impetus for his dedication to promoting peace and harmony among nations.

The Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation is poised to become a beacon of peace, leveraging the veteran's firsthand experiences to foster understanding and dialogue.

As part of their initiative, they are set to launch a compelling autobiography that chronicles WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond's journey during the Second World War.

The book will not only delve into his personal experiences, but also serves as a testament to Ghana's history, highlighting the contributions of its veterans.

WO1 Ashitey Hammond is well ahead in age and by 2025, would have lived for a century. He has experienced the dark days of wars and chaos and these experiences of war and unrest have greatly influenced his Global Peace Initiative.

The published book steps into a captivating memoir that unveils the untold stories of his harrowing experiences in India and Burma.

“In this compelling narrative, WO1 Hammond not only recounts the gritty details of wartime struggles but opens the door to his personal life, weaving in the threads of peace, love, loss, and resilience.

“Amidst the chaos of battle, WO1 Hammond's tale transcends borders, shedding light on Ghana's fight for independence. This poignant account offers a unique blend of history, personal reflection, and his extraordinary 99-year life.

“The goal of the book is not only to chronicle the life of the Lionhearted Hero but to also inform and educate on the effects of war as well as propagate the Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation’s Global Peace Agenda,” a release said.

He has also witnessed soldiers die at war and survived the Christiansburg Crossroads Massacre.

WO1 Hammond is passionate about promoting global peace, hence the introduction of the Global Peace Tour to educate and inform on the repercussions of war and violence, and encourage people to safeguard the peace within our communities.

The launch was graced by Ghana’s Ambassador to France and Portugal, Anna Bossman; friends, family, and representatives of the Ga Adangbe Traditional Council.



AM/AE