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Group Captain Felix Nana Adom Asante, Takoradi Air Force Base Commander in the Western Region, has warned persons currently undergoing training to be recruited into the Ghana Air Force not to go about bullying civilians whom they are to protect and defend. According to the Air Force commander, the era when the military became synonymous with fear and brutality is no more. Group Captain Asante gave the warning during the inter-squadron steeplechase competition for 291 new recruits at the Air Force Base. The competition, which involved recruits from the various squadrons of the Ghana Air Force, was aimed at testing the endurance, physical fitness and obstacle-crossing capabilities of the recruits. The steeplechase course covered a distance of about 64 kilometers with very rough and difficult terrain and varied obstacles. The Takoradi Air Force Base commander, who was the guest of honour for the ceremony, lauded the spectacular display of will-power and fortitude exhibited by the 291 recruits. He explained that the objective of the steeplechase competition was not to see who the fastest recruit was, but to inculcate into the new recruits endurance, team work and esprit de corps under trying conditions. He described the exercise as an essential part of the training, adding that �It was to test their endurance in different terrains and their ability to overcome obstacles wherever they are sent to � both in and outside the country.� He urged the recruits to keep up the good work so that they could be successful in their fields of work. Squadron Leader Amadu Sulley Timbilla, Officer Commanding the Airforce Training School, stressed that the competition was also to test the combat readiness of the recruits and that it formed part of their assessment � apart from their academic performances. After the exercise, trophies and certificates were presented to the winning squadron and deserving individuals. 204944 Recruit Roger Akakpo took the overall best award while 204988 Rec. Edna Asante was adjudged the best female runner in the competition. Falcon Squadron took the first position with Fokker Squadron taking the second and Diamond Squadron taking the third.