This rural carrier relies on a ferry to deliver part of his route

My name is Larry Wilson and I’m a rural carrier in Tompkinsville, KY.

After I pick up mail and packages from the local Post Office and load my postal vehicle, I board the Cumberland River Ferry to reach 43 of the 465 delivery points on my route. I ride almost daily, between 12:30 and 2:30 p.m.

The ferry is state-operated and runs 24 hours a day. I have gotten to know the boat’s captain well. I also get to enjoy the beauty of the river and its wildlife.

The part of the Cumberland River that I travel rarely floods. The water level is controlled by the nearby Wolf Creek Dam.

I can only recall one time the ferry closed for an extended period. It was many years ago when the ferry needed major repairs and did not operate for about 30 days. During that time, I still delivered the mail three times a week to those customers that I can only reach by ferry. My detour took me through Tennessee, and it took an extra hour and a half each way.

When I’m not at work, I enjoy spending time with my family which includes three children and four grandchildren. I live on a farm with my wife, Terri Lynn, where we enjoy hunting and riding ATVs.

I joined the Postal Service in 1985 and I have delivered this same route for my 39-year career. I have lived in Tompkinsville pretty much my whole life and I know I play an important role in delivering mail to customers throughout my community.