The oldest World War II veteran in the Volta Region, Private Emmanuel Dake, has turned 102.
A delegation from the Veterans Administration, Ghana (VAG), led by the regional chairman, WO I Kofi Amegbor Ghana, visited him at his family home in Peki-Dzake, South Dayi District, on Thursday to present gifts, including soft drinks, edibles and an undisclosed amount of money.
The Regional Officer (RO) of the Volta Regional VAG, who was a member of the delegation, Fleet Chief Petty Officer 1 Solomon Bediako Onwona, said Private Dake, who celebrated his birthday in February, distinguished himself as a true patriot during his years of service in the army.
He said there were about 649 army veterans in the region whose welfare was of great concern to VAG.
The RO urged all veterans in the region to keep their contact details and locations with VAG to ensure a prompt response to their basic needs.
Born on February 2, 1924, Comrade Dake enlisted in the Royal West African Frontier Force (RWAFF) in 1943 at the age of 19 and served in India during World War II.
After the war, he continued serving the Gold Coast at the Government Housing Agency, working in Koforidua, Oda, Somanya and Ho before ending his public service in 1954.
Despite retiring from public service, Comrade Dake remained committed to the veteran fraternity and contributed significantly to establishing and developing the Peki VAG District.
“As he celebrates his 102nd birthday, VAG honours his courage, patriotism and lifelong commitment to service,” said the regional officer of VAG.
Fleet Chief Petty Officer Onwona said VAG was grateful for Comrade Dake’s distinguished service and wished him a happy anniversary, belatedly though.
Responding, the centenarian urged serving soldiers to perform their duties with great zeal, devotion, patriotism and honesty.
“By so doing, you will also live long,” he added.
Comrade Dake, who eats only once a day, said he loved listening to gospel music in his spare time.
