He gave the assurance that everything would be done to ensure their welfare and upkeep.

Dr Afriyie said this at the 74th anniversary celebration of the Battle of Myohaung parade held at the Great Second Infantry Battalions(2BN) in conjunction with the Veterans Association, Ghana (VAG) at Apremdo in the Western Region.

The parade was held to commemorate ex-servicemen and women for their heroic deeds to the nation.

He pointed out that a nation that does not honour its heroes was not worth dying for, in this regard, he appreciated the gallant ex-servicemen and women for their roles played in service to humanity especially motherland Ghana.

The Regional Minister said, it was important to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by ex-servicemen and women in attaining the peace and stability Ghana and the rest of the world enjoy today.

He assured ex-servicemen and women of government’s support towards their upkeep and reiterated that the government would continue to discharge its responsibilities to enhance their welfare.

Dr. Afriyie praised the Veterans Association, Ghana (VAG) for promoting and seeking the welfare of all Veterans. He also assured them of government’s support to protect the interest of all Veterans.

Dr Afriyie commended the Ghana Armed Forces for their role in the fourth Republican dispensation.   He in this regard charged them to protect the territorial integrity of the country and also protect the constitution to sustain the nation’s democracy.

The Chairman of VAG, Chief Officer Retired Augustine Osei Bonsu said, the anniversary celebration of the Battle of Myohaung was an annual day of remembrance for the whole Royal West African Frontier Forces (WAFF). According to him, on that day in 1945, the two largest formations which West African had put into the field, the 81st and 82nd divisions advancing on convergent axis met and emerged victorious on the battlefield.

He explained that, this result was a singular achievement for the West African Forces(WAF) whose ranks included major units from Nigeria, the Gold Coast, Sierra Leone and Gambia and that It was as a result of this that  the day was celebrated annually in honour of the departed heroes.