Walpole, NH, Rural Carrier Commended

When Walpole, NH, Rural Carrier Richard Parkhurst observed that his 88-year-old customer's mail had not been picked up, he dismounted his vehicle to investigate. He knocked on the door and heard the customer yell for him to break down the door because he had suffered a bad fall. 

Parkhurst called 911 and waited for EMTs and local police to arrive. They determined that the customer was severely dehydrated from being immobile for three days. The carrier's actions allowed the octogenarian to be treated at a local hospital. Afterwards, the latter's family expressed deep appreciation for helping their uncle receive medical care.

Parkhurst received a commendation from the rural carriers' union and a personal letter of thanks from PMG Pat Donahoe.