East Palestine Postmaster Lee Beight, left, and Norfolk Southern Community Liaison Jeremy Vranesevich surprised village postal workers with an appreciation breakfast Friday. (Submitted photo)

EAST PALESTINE — East Palestine Postmaster Lee Beight and Norfolk Southern Community Liaison Jeremy Vranesevich recognized 16 postal workers who have made sure February’s train derailment caused no interruption through the village’s mail service with an appreciation breakfast Friday from the Original Roadhouse. The catered breakfast not only celebrated East Palestine’s postal staff steadfast service in the wake of the rail disaster but it also acknowledged the work they put in all year as part of National Postal Workers Day which was observed on July 1.

“We’re incredibly grateful to East Palestine’s postal workers for their tireless dedication to our community. When they deliver our mail, they bring us all together. Now it’s our turn to come together to show our appreciation for all they do,” said Vranesevich. “Norfolk Southern feels privileged to honor these amazing heroes, not just on National Postal Workers Day, but every single day.”

In addition to the traditional breakfast, Norfolk Southern provided cinnamon rolls from Horst Deli as well as a small gift of appreciation.

Beight said the recognition was well deserved.

“I’m so impressed with the employees at the East Palestine Post Office. They reported to work every day and delivered mail to every house. I’ve worked in 10 different post offices and with many postal employees, but this group stands out,” Beight said. “Even with their own safety concerns, they didn’t hesitate to serve this community once the National Guard allowed us back. Their dedication and willingness to bring mail to East Palestine residents inspires me. I’m grateful to work with them here.”

selverd@mojonews.com