Agreed. Based on my experience those serving a cause in earnest, frequently, don't want or "need" the recognition for their work. They are serving based on a higher purpose if you will. Perhaps tied to their religion or other core beliefs.
My mom actually met and was given awards for her service to the USA by 3 different sitting US presidents and a 4th provided a lifetime "Thanks" in the Oval Office. She passed on the visiting the White House on the 4th but accepted the other 3 for her teams. Yes, she didnt think she deserved them, because "her teams did all the work", so she "accepted the awards for them". Seriously. You could Google her name and nothing would come up, but I have the awards and pics. My mom, doesn't even see herself as a hero, she was just "doing her job". Yes, her words. She's obviously a much better human than I can or will ever hope to be. I try.. but nope not close.