Soldier who died in Bronx fire honored in Ghana

Private First Class (PFC) Emmanuel Mensah, a Ghanaian immigrant soldier who died while saving victims in a fire outbreak in Bronx, US has been honoured with a memorial in Ghana.

Eulogizing Emmanuel Mensah, at a memorial ceremony held at the US embassy Tuesday February 27, US Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson described the fallen soldier as a selfless hero whose sacrifice cannot be overlooked.

“An American hero who served his nation in uniform, Private First Class Mensah sacrificed his life so that others might live, therefore embodying the noblest values of the profession of arms even while off duty.”

”His heroism is honoured both to the United States as in Ghana…His example teaches us the true meaning of citizenship, shaped and defined by his character, courage and honour. Emmanuel “performed these acts of heroism at the expense of his own life, which we honour today.”

Uncle of the deceased soldier, Andrew Kwadwo Oduro, extolled his nephew’s noble act, describing him as a man who concerned himself more with others than himself.

“I can’t be anymore prouder of him than I am today. I am proud because today we honour him not just as a valiant soldier unshaken and brave, till his last breath. He was a giant among men, one who was willing to risk it all to save one more person, a real-world hero.”

He also appreciated efforts by the United States and Ghana to honour the bravery of his nephew.

Also paying homage to Emmanuel Mensah, Senior Defense Official of the US Embassy, LtCol Joseph Lee, US Marine Corps, said, he exemplified the highest value of self-sacrifice. He asked on all and sundry not to mourn but celebrate the fallen soldier.

Aside tributes which were read, a medal citation was presented in honour of the late hero. Also in attendance was Interior Minister, Ambrose Derry, some members of Emmanuel’s family as well as his colleagues from the US Army National Guard.

About Emmanuel Owusu Mensah

Emmanuel Mensah was born April 11, 1991 at Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital in Accra to Kwabena Mensah and the late Beatrice Owusu.

In 2012, Emmanuel migrated to the United States to join his father in the Bronx. He later enlisted in the New York State Army National Guard, completing basic training and advanced individual training in 2017.

On December 28, 2107, while home for Christmas, an accidental fire broke out in a neighbour’s apartment and quickly spread through the building. Although Emmanuel initially made it safely to the street, he made four separate forays back into the building to save his fellow residents.

He however could not return after his fourth trip into the inferno as he got trapped by smoke. Emmanuel is credited with saving four lives, and will forever be recognized as an American hero.