Estimated read time: 1-2 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
SPRINGVILLE — Every day at noon a volunteer from Meals on Wheels brings 91-year-old Gene Mock lunch.
But Wednesday, volunteer Wendy Edward had more than a hot meal for the World War II veteran — she had a special delivery.
Edwards works full time at Questar Gas, but it's what she does during her lunch hour that brings her joy. Twice a week she delivers meals and visits with people like Mock.
Mock is one of several Springville residents Edwards delivers a lunch to. Several weeks ago, he asked Wendy for some help.
"He said, ‘I got this postcard in the mail the other day and I'm just beside myself. I don't know what to do with it,'" she said.
The postcard had information on how Mock could apply to get his Navy service medals.
Edwards got right to work, making dozens of phone calls across the country, so Mock could finally receive his medals. He served in the Navy from 1942 through the end of World War II.
"I was all over the Pacific and went through the Panama Canal and over to the Atlantic," he said.
The medals are an honor for Gene, and Wendy was all too happy to help him get what he deserves. She said the people she delivers to become part of her family.
"It's not just delivering a meal, we visit five, 10, 15 minutes a day," she said. "It is the best part of the job."
Gene is looking forward to celebrating his 92nd birthday on Nov. 11 — Veterans Day.