US Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson laying a wreath in honor of PFC Emmanuel Mensah
The United States Ambassador to Ghana, Robert P. Jackson, has praised the late, Private First Class (PFC), Emmanuel Mensah, describing him as a selfless hero whose sacrifice cannot be overlooked.
Private First Class (PFC), a Ghanaian immigrant soldier died in the US while saving victims in a fire outbreak in Bronx on December 28, 2017.
After safely exiting the burning building where he lived, the late PFC Mensah, made four trips back into the inferno to rescue other residents who were trapped in the burning building, unfortunately for him, he got trapped by smoke on his fourth trip leading to his death.
Ambassador Jackson addressing a solemn service in honor of the fallen soldier at the US Embassy in Accra said PFC Mensah was, “An American hero who served his nation in uniform. Private First Class Mensah sacrificed his life so that others might live, therefore embodying the noblest values of the profession of arms even while off duty.”
“His heroism is an honour both to the United States and Ghana…His example teaches us the true meaning of citizenship, shaped and defined by his character, courage and honour. Emmanuel “performed these acts of heroism at the expense of his own life, which we honour today,” he added.
Ambassador Jackson noted that the heroic act by PFC Mensah reflected the American story, in which citizens and immigrants alike, become heroes by doing extraordinary things in pursuit of serving others.
Lieutenant Colonel Joseph Lee, of the US Marine Corps and Senior Defence Official at the US Embassy Accra, paid glowing tribute to the fallen soldier, saying, PFC Mensah’s acts of self-sacrifice exemplified the highest values of a US Military Service member.
“That day, he demonstrated a level of courage that cannot be taught but which all militaries around the world hope to instil in their soldiers,” and urged the family of PFC Mensah to be proud as his actions embodied the values taught to him by his family and the US army.
Lt. Col Lee said it was important, not only to mourn the loss of PFC Mensah, but to celebrate his life and memorialise the positive values that were demonstrated on February 28, 2017, and find ways to make the world slightly better as he exhibited.
Uncle of the deceased soldier, Andrew Kwadwo Oduro, extolled his nephew’s noble act, describing him as a man who concerned himself more with others than himself.
“I can’t be anymore prouder of him than I am today. I am proud because today we honour him not just as a valiant soldier unshaken and brave, till his last breath. He was a giant among men, one who was willing to risk it all to save one more person, a real-world hero.”
He also appreciated efforts by the United States and Ghana to honour the bravery of his nephew.
By Jamila Akweley Okertchiri