Centenary celebrations of WO1 Joseph Hammond launched
The Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation in collaboration with the Ghana Armed Forces, has officially launched the Centenary Celebrations of Warrant Officer Class 1 (WO1) Joseph Ashitey Hammond, a Ghanaian World War II veteran, marking 100 years of an extraordinary life dedicated to service, patriotism, and community impact.
The milestone is not only a tribute to WO1 Hammond’s service in World War II but also a recognition of his continuous advocacy for veterans and national development in Ghana.
At the press launch held at Burma Camp, key dignitaries, members of the diplomatic corps, veterans, and media representatives gathered to honour the legacy of WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond, for his World War II service in the 14th Army of Great Britain under the West African Frontier Force 82nd Division.
The veteran’s commitment to advancing international peace spurred from these personal experiences. They are used by the Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation to promote understanding and communication, positioning it as a beacon of peace and reconciliation.
“Today, we have officially set in motion the Centenary Celebrations of WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond, a milestone that goes beyond honouring a single individual—it is a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of all veterans who have served with distinction,” said The Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation in a press release on February 15.
“This centenary is not just about remembrance; it is a call to action. A call to support our veterans, to preserve our history, and to inspire future generations with the values of service and patriotism that WOI Joseph Ashitey Hammond embodies.”
The centenary celebrations, spanning from February 15 to May 10, 2025, will feature a series of events, including: February 27’s Peace Walk at Teshie; March 3’s Quiz Competition at Teshie Northern Cluster of Schools (Gornor); March 29’s Centenary Football Match with the Ghana Armed Forces at El Wak Sports Stadium; April 25’s Joseph Ashitey Hammond Lectures at the University of Ghana; and two events on May 10 which is the Opening of a Botanical Museum at Tema; and Grand Celebration at Labadi Beach Hotel.
The Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation invites government institutions, corporate organizations, the international community, and the public to join in celebrating this memorial occasion. The centenary aims to inspire national pride, honour the contributions of veterans, and reinforce the importance of preserving Ghana’s rich military history.
“We thank our esteemed partners, the Ghana Armed Forces, diplomatic missions, corporate sponsors, and the media, for standing with us on this journey. Your support ensures that this celebration reaches the heights it deserves. As we move forward with the scheduled events, we invite everyone to stay engaged, spread the message, and be part of this historic occasion. Together, let us make this centenary a legacy for generations to come. Thank you all,” stated The Joseph Ashitey Hammond Foundation.
Oral Ofori is Founder and Publisher at www.TheAfricanDream.net, a digital storyteller and producer, and also an information and research consultant.
