Long Valley Mail Carrier Honored for Saving 'Incapacitated' Elderly Man

One of Long Valley’s mail carriers went above and beyond the call of duty earlier this year, and because of that is being honored during a special recognition ceremony this week.

Eric Fichter, a Long Valley Rural Carrier and Hackettstown resident, was working his route on Jan. 30 when he came upon an injured senior citizen who had fallend from his mobility scooter into the road, according to George Flood of the United States Postal Service.

Fichter parked his truck and flagged down a truck driver for additional help. The duo moved the incapacitated 88-year-old to safety, called 9-1-1 and began applying bandages to the injuries, Flood said.

Fichter stayed with the octogenarian until police and emergency medical services arrived, which then transported the injured person to the hospital, Flood said. There the 88-year-old was treated for a puncture wound to the head, severe laceration to the thumb, and missing skin from his forearm.

“I want to commend your heroic actions and selfless display of civic duty,” wrote U.S. Postmaster General Patrick R. Donahoe in a letter of commendation to Mr. Fichter, according to Flood. “Your efforts remind us all of the ties that bind communities and our country together,” added the Postal Service’s CEO. “We are fortunate to have employees of your caliber represent this organization. Thank you and well done.”

Fichter works out of the post office building on Old Farmers Road under postmaster Linda Brookins.