Warrant Officer Class One (WOI) Joseph Ashitey Hammond, Ghana’s last surviving veteran from the 1948 Crossroads shooting, was celebrated in a heartfelt 100th birthday tribute on Friday, July 25, 2025. The milestone was more than a birthday—it was a national moment to honour a man who carries within him living memories of Ghana’s road to independence.
The historic celebration took place at Burma Hall in Burma Camp, a fitting location steeped in military tradition. It served as the grand conclusion to months of commemorative events spearheaded by the Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation in partnership with the Ghana Armed Forces.
WOI Hammond witnessed first-hand the tragic Crossroads incident that claimed the lives of Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey—an event that ignited the flames of Ghana’s independence movement. Today, he stands as the last voice from that day, reminding Ghanaians of the price of freedom and the endurance of national spirit.
The yearlong celebration began in February with a national press campaign, followed by a symbolic peace walk, a Veterans Football Cup tournament, and a public lecture at the University of Ghana. Each activity was thoughtfully curated to reflect the values WOI Hammond has stood for: service, sacrifice, and peace.
The July 25 centenary event was hosted by media personality Kafui Dey and drew an impressive crowd of traditional leaders, high-ranking military officials, politicians, and members of the public. In attendance were:
- Ga Abola Tunma WE Dzaasetse Nii Ayi Anakonteh I, representing the Ga Mantse
- AVM F. A. Asante, on behalf of the Ghana Armed Forces
- Nii Okang Duamro Nmashie III, represented by the Head of Klu Din WE
- Dr. Norley Ashitey, former MP for Ledzokuku and Deputy Minister of Health
- Hon. Afriyie Ankrah, representing the President of the Republic of Ghana
- Lt. Gen. Obed Boamah Akwa (Retired)
- Members of the Ashitey Royal Family and local dignitaries
The day was enriched with cultural dance by the vibrant Tordey Dancers and soul-stirring poetry from Albert Amafu and Abednego Nii Kwardey Ntreh. Chiefs, queen mothers, and community members from Accra, Jamestown Noyaakpee, and Tema also came in full support. The ceremony aired live on GTV, allowing both local and international viewers to share in the moment.
At 100 years old, WOI Hammond continues to be a symbol of courage and quiet strength. His story is a powerful reminder that history lives not only in books, but in the people who shaped it with their lives. His contributions to national service and peacekeeping extend far beyond the battlefield—they echo in classrooms, in parades, and in the hearts of Ghanaians everywhere.
For a more detailed report on the celebration and WOI Hammond’s legacy, visit the original article on TrenderHQ:
