Floyd Martin has worked for the US Postal Service in Marietta, Georgia for over 20 years, 35 total years with the USPS.
20 years is more than enough time to get to know the folks along your delivery route, and that's exactly what Martin did.
He made an effort to get to know folks, and to make their lives better, and all of that positive energy was returned when Floyd retired.
The neighborhood he delivered to decided to throw a block party to celebrate Martin's retirement, and to celebrate the part he had played in everyone's lives over the past 2 decades.
Local journalist and friend of Floyd, Jennifer Brett, traveled Floyd's route with him on the last day before his retirement. She got to see customers come out to congratulate him on his retirement and thank him for being a part of their lives.
Many even brought him presents.
Floyd has had a definite presence in the community during his time as a mail carrier.
He has always tried to brighten people's lives, even going so far as to carry treats for the local dogs and cats.
To show Martin how much they appreciated his contributions to their lives, over 300 people turned up to a surprise block party honoring him.
Many who came are teens and young adults who have grown up seeing Floyd every day, and knowing he was always good for a kind word—or a treat!
During Floyd's speech, he talked about how the community was there for him in his times of need too.
"You were there when I needed you, even if you didn't know it."
He had some words of wisdom too:
Floyd revealed to Brett that he has always dreamed of visiting Hawaii, and the neighborhood started a GoFundMe to help him realize that dream.
It has since raised over $25,000 (the original goal was $5000), so Mr. Martin will finally be able to have his dream vacation.
People absolutely loved Floyd's story on Twitter.
Many shared stories of family who were also letter carriers, and the impact they had on their communities.
Many mail carriers care about their communities, but not many take that caring as far as Floyd.
Sometimes it's the small gestures, the daily greetings, dog bones, lollipops, and holiday cards, that really show how much love there is in a community.
If you appreciate the work your mail carrier does, a small thank you card or a bottle of water on a hot day are great ways to show it!
