Public Law 118 – 243: Designating the Rio Grande Post Office as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building”
On February 5, 2025, Public Law 118 – 243 was enacted, officially designating the United States Postal Service (USPS) facility located at 1087 Route 47 South in Rio Grande, New Jersey, as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building.”
About Carlton H. Hand
Carlton H. Hand (1929-2022) was a dedicated public servant who made significant contributions to the Cape May County community. He served as the Postmaster of Rio Grande from 1977 to 2003, and his exceptional service and commitment left a lasting impact on the town.
Background
The Rio Grande Post Office has been a vital part of the community for nearly a century. The original building, constructed in 1930, was replaced in 1973 with a larger facility. In recognition of Mr. Hand’s unwavering service, the Rio Grande community initiated efforts to name the post office in his honor.
In 2023, Congressman Jeff Van Drew (R-NJ) introduced legislation to designate the Rio Grande Post Office as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building.” The legislation gained bipartisan support and was passed by the House of Representatives in December 2023. The Senate passed the bill in January 2025, and President Biden signed it into law on February 5, 2025.
Significance
The designation of the Rio Grande Post Office as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building” serves several important purposes:
- Honors a Dedicated Public Servant: The naming of the post office recognizes Mr. Hand’s tireless work and commitment to the Rio Grande community.
- Preserves Local History: The renaming ensures that Mr. Hand’s legacy will be remembered for generations to come and preserves an important part of Rio Grande’s history.
- Inspires Future Generations: The “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building” will serve as an inspiration to young people in the community, encouraging them to follow in the footsteps of dedicated public servants.
Conclusion
Public Law 118 – 243 is a fitting tribute to Carlton H. Hand and his unwavering dedication to the Rio Grande community. The designation of the post office in his honor is a testament to the lasting impact of public service and ensures that his legacy will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
Public Law 118 – 243 – An act to designate the facility of the United States Postal Service located at 1087 Route 47 South in Rio Grande, New Jersey, as the “Carlton H. Hand Post Office Building”.
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