By Shealagh Sullivan
Contributing Writer
MARLBOROUGH — Chad Wiggin has delivered mail to Val’s Mobile Home Park for the past four years.
But a few months ago, his normal delivery route took a turn when he found a Marlborough resident who had fallen in his driveway. The 89-year-old resident had broken his hip and was unable to get up.
“I know him, I talk to him every day,” Wiggin said.
Wiggin didn’t hesitate.
He grabbed a pillow and blanket for the man and helped him get more comfortable, adding that he didn’t want to move him and risk further injury. He called 9-1-1 and the man’s sister, and sat with him until help arrived.
For his actions, Wiggin was nominated and received the Postmaster General Hero Award on Sept. 26, a national honor among postal employees for going above and beyond.
“Chad is an extraordinary individual who exemplifies the spirit of service and dedication that we value so deeply in our postal family,” said Marlborough Postmaster Nicholas Tselikis.
But Wiggin isn’t a fan of being lauded as a “hero.” To him, it was just another day on the job.
“Did I do something nice and kind? Yes, but I also feel like it’s just something that everybody else would do, and I consider it part of my job,” Wiggin said.
Wiggin has worked at the post office for nearly 20 years. In that time, he said he’s befriended the residents on his routes over the years.
“You do the same route every single day. If you don’t make friends out there, it turns into a pretty boring job,” Wiggin joked.
Helping a friend in need isn’t something he had to think about — it’s something he said anyone would do.
“He came across an elderly gentleman who had fallen in the walkway. In that moment, Chad didn’t just see a man in need, he saw a neighbor, a member of our community who required immediate assistance,” said Tselikis.
“What truly sets Chad apart is his unwavering commitment to the well-being of those he serves,” he added.
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