GRANTS, NM – As part of the United States Postal Service’s ‘For the Long Haul’ initiative, the Grants Post Office is proud to celebrate David Rodriguez’ 50 years of service to the Postal Service and his community. But what is also special about his service, is that he has been on the same route in Grants since 1990.
‘For the Long Haul’ is an initiative designed to honor the remarkable dedication of long-serving employees like David who have become integral parts of their communities. It wasn’t just by coincidence that he joined the Postal Service as a clerk in Gallup back in 1974. His uncle, who was the postmaster at the time, felt he needed some direction. So, he hired David to “… get him off the streets.” David took pride and joy in his profession and continued his service to the community.
In 1980, he moved from Gallup to Grants during the uranium boom and switched jobs to become a letter carrier. In 1990, he took the route he has been faithfully delivering to for 34 years.
When asked what it means to be a postal employee, he replied with a wry smile and a chuckle, “Just doing my job.” He believes his work is not only about delivering letters and packages but also being in touch with the community, especially with essential items like medications to veterans and elderly customers. “It’s all about the people,’ he said.