‘Storied career.’ Stratford mail carrier marks half a century of federal service
Danny Dufresne first put on the uniform in 1977 after spending four years in the U.S. Navy.
More Stories
Danny Dufresne, of Stratford, began delivering mail when the price of a stamp was $0.13. Fast forward to now, and Dufresne is marking half a century of federal service.
“I never thought 50 years because it’s gone by so fast!” Dufresne told News 12.
Dufresne first put on the uniform in 1977 after spending four years in the U.S. Navy. He said he got his start working out of a small station in Bridgeport called Noble station, then transferred in 1988 to the post office in Stratford. Dufresne was born and raised in the town so there’s been an added connection to the job.
“I've delivered to a lot of people,” Dufresne said, “especially in my old neighborhood. And so that in itself is a joy.”
Dufresne has seen the gig change a lot over the years, especially with technology.
“Years ago, you didn't have machines that put your mail in order for you. You had to do everything by hand. The routes were shorter, and the packages weren’t anything like what they are today,” he recalled.
But for 30 years, one thing has been the same—Dufresne's route.
“I have 493 deliveries on the southside of Oronoque Village. That was the best move I ever made—to take this route over. I've met so many good people up there. It's just unbelievable.”
Plus, there's the work environment. Dufresne enjoys being outside. He turns 70 years old next month but said retirement isn't part of his upcoming route.
“It's been a storied career, and I enjoyed every minute of it so far. I have no regrets,” Dufresne told News 12. He also said staff in Stratford are lucky to have a good managerial staff, including station manager Richard Walton.
The Stratford Post Office is planning a celebration this month for Dufresne's 50 years of federal service.
