Feeling nostalgic. What an honor to be transported back to 1948. But as a ’98 baby, how do I feel nostalgic?
February 28 marks the solemn flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony held every year in honor of the three ex-servicemen—Sergeant Adjetey, Corporal Attipoe, and Private Odartey Lamptey—who were killed in 1948 by the then-colonial police while marching to Osu Castle to present their petition to the Governor and Commander-in-Chief, Sir Gerald Creasy.
It is tragic that our heroes had to die fighting for what was rightfully theirs. Today, their actions are remembered as a heroic act of defiance against colonial rule.
Superintendent Colin Imray shot our unarmed ex-servicemen during their peaceful march to Osu Castle.
As part of the Gold Coast Regiment of the Royal West African Frontier Force, they were demanding their rightful compensation from the British authorities.
Their untimely deaths sparked nationwide protests, significantly fueling the independence movement and strengthening the resolve of key nationalists, including the Big Six, in their quest for self-rule. Their sacrifice ultimately played a crucial role in Ghana achieving independence on March 6, 1957.
The atmosphere was tense as the veterans reflected on the tragic loss of their brothers who lost their lives fighting for the country we all live freely in today.
The veterans’ reenactment gave me a clearer visual experience of the disaster that unfolded on February 28, 1948.
The reason for my nostalgia.
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED . Words and Photos By Thecalebmensah.
PHOTOS AVAILABLE AS PRINTS.
