President John Dramani Mahama has appealed to Ghanaians to recognise the dedication of public servants while they are alive and actively serving, rather than reserving national appreciation for moments of loss.

Addressing the National Inter-Faith Memorial Service in Accra to mark the first anniversary of the military helicopter crash that claimed the lives of eight government officials and military personnel, the President said many men and women in public service make enormous personal sacrifices that often receive little public attention.

He noted that the demands of public office frequently require officials to spend extended periods away from their families, work under challenging conditions and make difficult decisions in the national interest.

According to President Mahama, such sacrifices are rarely acknowledged until a national tragedy exposes the extent of their commitment.

“Much of their work goes unnoticed. They travel long distances. They spend countless hours away from their families. They endure difficult conditions. They make decisions under pressure. They accept risks because they believe that Ghana’s progress is worth every effort,” he said.

The President observed that while public servants are central to the country's development and security, their contributions are too often recognised only after they have paid the ultimate price.

He therefore called for a shift in national attitude, urging citizens to honour commitment, diligence and selfless service as they occur, rather than waiting until lives are lost.

“Today we must resolve to appreciate public service even as it is performed daily. To appreciate those who labour faithfully, often without recognition, because they believe in something that is greater than themselves,” he stated.

President Mahama also offered renewed condolences to the families of those who perished in the August 6, 2025 helicopter crash, assuring them that the nation continues to share in their grief.