Story: Corporal Ayim P
Pictures: Aircraftman Class I Ankomah RP

Diamond Squadron emerged as the overall champions at the Inter-Squadron Cross Country Competition organised by the Air Force Recruit Training School (AFRTS), Takoradi, for recruits of Course 1/2026 on Saturday, 20 June 2026.

Falcon Squadron placed second, while MI-17 Squadron and Casa Squadron finished third and fourth, respectively, in the highly competitive event, which showcased endurance, teamwork and military spirit among the recruits.

The competition brought together 298 recruits who participated in a demanding 15-kilometre race designed to test their physical fitness, mental resilience and determination. The event formed part of the School's training programme aimed at developing physically fit and mentally resilient personnel capable of meeting the demands of military service.

Addressing the recruits before the race, the Guest of Honour, the Commanding Officer of the Supply Wing, Air Force Base Takoradi, Wing Commander Samuel Kwame Baah Banson, emphasised that excellence in military service was built on discipline, perseverance and willpower rather than talent alone. He noted that every recruit's performance contributed to their squadron's success and reminded instructors that recruits reflected the quality of their leadership.

Wing Commander Baah Banson also underscored the importance of safety throughout the exercise, noting that medical personnel and water points had been strategically positioned along the route to ensure the well-being of all participants.

In the individual events, Recruit Salisu Eunice of Falcon Squadron emerged winner in the female category. Recruit Domey Dorcas of MI-17 Squadron placed first runner-up, while Recruit Morladjah Magdalene of Diamond Squadron secured the second runner-up position.

In the male category, Recruit Nawuche David of Diamond Squadron was crowned champion after an impressive performance. Recruit Dawuda Iddrisu of Falcon Squadron finished as first runner-up, while Recruit Kyere Korsah of Casa Squadron placed second runner-up.

Delivering his closing remarks, Wing Commander Baah Banson commended all participants for successfully completing the demanding race, describing their achievement as a demonstration of determination, endurance and teamwork. He stressed that completing the race was as significant as winning and praised the recruits for exhibiting resilience and camaraderie throughout the competition.

Special recognition was accorded to Recruit Adinkrah Emmanuel for his selfless act of assisting fellow recruits during the race. This gesture exemplified the values of teamwork and service cherished by the Ghana Air Force.

The event concluded with expressions of appreciation to the instructors, support staff and medical personnel whose dedication ensured a safe and casualty-free competition, further reinforcing the Ghana Air Force's commitment to nurturing physically fit, disciplined and resilient personnel for future military service.