As history fades into the distant past, the echoes of Ghana’s involvement in World War II still resonate through one man—Ex-Warrant Officer Class I Joseph Ashitey Hammond. At 100 years old, he remains Ghana’s last WWII veteran, still alive a living testament to the bravery and resilience of the African soldiers who fought in the Burma Campaign. His journey from the battlefields of Southeast Asia to becoming an advocate for peace and a storyteller of war experiences is chronicled in his memoir, My Voice, My Story.
The Path to the Last Survivor
Ghana, formerly the Gold Coast, contributed thousands of men to fight alongside British forces during World War II. Many young men, including Ashitey Hammond, joined the British Army with hopes of securing their future while defending the empire. The harsh realities of war saw these soldiers battle against the Japanese in Burma, where the conditions were brutal—disease, hunger, and the relentless enemy attacks shaped their experiences.
Over the decades, many of these valiant men passed on, either during battle or in the years that followed due to war-related health complications. A decade ago, a handful of veterans were still alive to mark the anniversary of their sacrifices, but their numbers dwindled quickly. The last to pass on before Ashitey Hammond was Ex-Private Ebenezer Kotei, who died in 2022.
The British Dependence on Colonial Soldiers
During World War II, Britain relied heavily on its colonies to reinforce its military strength. As the war intensified, manpower shortages in Europe forced Britain to recruit soldiers from Africa, the Caribbean, and South Asia. African colonies, particularly Ghana, Nigeria, and Sierra Leone, provided thousands of troops, many of whom fought in harsh jungle conditions in Burma against Japanese forces. Among these, Nigeria contributed the highest number of West African troops, forming a significant portion of the West African Frontier Force.
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My Voice, My Story—A Window Into History
In September 2024, Ashitey Hammond launched his memoir, a 220-page book that takes readers through his early life, military service, and post-war struggles. The book sheds light on lesser-known aspects of Ghanaian soldiers’ contributions to WWII and the often-overlooked sacrifices of African troops.
Some of the key moments from his book include:
- Enlisting at a Young Age: Ashitey Hammond joined the army as a teenager, driven by a mix of adventure and a sense of duty.
- Surviving the Burma Campaign: He details the relentless jungle warfare, emphasizing the mental and physical resilience needed to survive in one of WWII’s most grueling theaters of war.
- Returning Home to Neglect: Despite their sacrifices, many African soldiers, including Ashitey Hammond, returned home to little recognition or support. The transition from war hero to civilian life was riddled with hardship.
- Advocacy and Recognition: In his later years, Ashitey Hammond dedicated himself to advocating for veterans’ welfare and promoting peace, eventually receiving honorary recognition from President Nana Akufo-Addo in 2020.
A Call for Peace and Reflection
On Remembrance Day in November 2024, Ashitey Hammond made a heartfelt plea for peace in Ghana ahead of the national elections. He reflected on the horrors of war and urged the nation to uphold unity, emphasizing that conflict only brings suffering and loss. His words serve as a powerful reminder that history must be preserved not just in books but in the collective consciousness of a nation.
The Family of WO1 Ashitey Hammond
Although much of his story focuses on his military and advocacy work, Ashitey Hammond also built a strong family life. He is a father and grandfather, with descendants who continue to honor his legacy. His family has supported his efforts to preserve history and ensure that younger generations understand the sacrifices made by their forebears.
The Legacy Lives On
As the last living bridge to Ghana’s WWII past, Ex-WO1 Joseph Ashitey Hammond’s story is a priceless archive of history. His memoir, My Voice, My Story, ensures that future generations never forget the sacrifices made by Ghanaian soldiers in a war that reshaped the world.
His life stands as a symbol of resilience, duty, and the enduring human spirit. As he continues to share his journey, Ghana and the world must listen, learn, and honor the legacy of the soldiers who fought for a future they never got to see
