As we celebrate Public Service Recognition Week, I want to personally acknowledge and honor the many men and women who serve our nation, specifically our TAS and IRS employees – those at the heart of serving millions of taxpayers each year. I extend my gratitude for all public servants’ exceptionalism and steadfast commitment to serving others in areas such as federal, state, and local government, military, law enforcement, and other essential services, including medical care. Although each year we recognize and express our appreciation to TAS and IRS employees, this year is a bit different, as their efforts have been even more important to our nation.

I’m also extending my sincere appreciation to include all those who serve the public – no matter the capacity – to acknowledge all they’ve experienced over the last year both personally and professionally due to the unexpected impacts of COVID-19 to their health, their careers, and their communities. High on my list to thank are the essential medical, police, and fire personnel who rose to the occasion day after day to care for others in a critical way that none of us probably ever thought we’d experience in our lifetime. Equally as important are our military personnel who serve or have served to keep us safe and protect our freedom, and a special thank you to the President of the United States, his administration, and members of Congress and their staff who serve to create laws that influence our daily lives. And certainly, every TAS and IRS employee who continues to rise above, face the challenges directly, and serve taxpayers who need help understanding and complying with our very complex tax system; these employees deserve grand appreciation for their service to others. Many taxpayers would not receive the help and education they desperately need to comply with their tax obligations and ultimately could lose faith in our tax system without the devotion of TAS and IRS employees.

Without dedicated servants, our health care system and military would not be the best in the world, and our country would not be as safe and protected against harmful threats, and we would not have the freedom to enjoy the American way of life.

When public service employees combine their invaluable efforts, good work ethic, and dedication to help others, together, we make a difference in the lives of others.

There is no greater challenge and there is no greater honor than to be in public service.

— Condoleezza Rice