ARDMORE, TN – The Postal Service has honored Ardmore Rural Carrier James “Steve” Phifer as a Postmaster General Hero for his actions aiding a customer who had fallen outside his home.

This past fall, Phifer spotted an elderly customer who was laying on an incline just a foot or two from a pond in the back yard. He had fallen completely off his motorized wheelchair. The man’s wife was unable to assist so Phifer lifted the gentleman back onto the wheelchair. Phifer stayed with the couple for a short time to ensure they were OK, then left to complete deliveries on his route.

“It gives us great pride to have such an outstanding employee as Mr. Phifer,” said Postmaster Ken Watts during the presentation at the Ardmore Post Office.

The Postmaster General Hero Award is given to those who perform a heroic act above and beyond the call of duty while on the job.

The Tennessee District serves ZIP Codes, 376-385 in Tennessee and 307 in northern Georgia.

The Postal Service receives no tax dollars for operating expenses, and relies on the sale of postage, products and services to fund its operations.

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