This Employee Saw a Truck Crash into a Church — and Immediately Took Action
Letter Carrier Ryan Dillon used his emergency training to save a life
While on his delivery route in Bristol, NH, Letter Carrier Ryan Dillon witnessed a harrowing scene: a speeding truck passed another vehicle, ran a stop sign, and ultimately crashed into a church—narrowly missing pedestrians and other traffic along the way.
The impact was so severe that the driver was thrown from the truck and left badly injured in the street.
Dillon didn’t hesitate. A volunteer firefighter with emergency medical training, he rushed to the scene, using his skills to stabilize and treat the driver until paramedics arrived.
The man was transported to a local hospital and underwent surgery. Sadly, he passed away three days later.
A Dedication to Service
Benjamin LaRoche, the local fire chief, had high praise for Dillon:
“Ryan is consistently one of the most active responders to emergencies and attendees at training events. He has a great service-first mindset — ready to respond day or night — and, apparently, even while he is delivering mail.”
Recognizing Heroism
Dillon’s actions reflect the Postal Service’s spirit of public service—going above and beyond, even in the face of crisis. Employees like Dillon are honored through the Postmaster General Heroes’ Program, which awards letters of commendation to those who make extraordinary contributions to their communities.
A nomination form for the program is available on Blue.
