Josh Asentista has been a pillar at the 'Ewa Beach United States Post Office. Photo: courtesy.
“One thing I like about the post office is the people we meet from ʻEwa Beach,” he said. “You know everybody, and I can remember everybody's name because I see them every day.”
He laughs when comparing the post office to the television show Cheers.
“It's like that movie, Cheers, where everybody knows your name.”
Josh still remembers many of the longtime residents he met when he first started. He says the people of ʻEwa Beach are generous, kind, and unforgettable.
“Our customers bring us donuts and cookies,” he said with a grin. “My doctor keeps telling me I need to go on a diet. Maybe they should start bringing me celery instead.”
Among his proudest accomplishments is helping the ʻEwa Beach Post Office earn a prestigious national "5-Star" award, recognizing excellence in customer service and operations. For Josh, the honor reflects the dedication of the more than 50 employees who work together every day to serve the community.
“We have a great team here,” he said. “Everybody works hard and cares about our customers.”
The 'Ewa Beach Post Office has been highly rated, in part due to employees like Josh Asentista. Photo: Courtesy
While customer service remains his favorite part of the job, the work has changed dramatically over the years.
Since September 11, security requirements have increased significantly.
Today, postal employees carefully screen mail for prohibited and dangerous items, including explosives, fireworks, illegal drugs, lithium batteries, and hazardous materials.
“There are a lot of things we have to watch to make sure the mail is safe for people, which is really important to us,” Josh said.
He also wants residents to know the Postal Service cares deeply about every package that passes through its doors.
“If your package doesn't arrive, we can track it using your tracking number,” he said.
Despite the technology and security changes, Josh believes the most important part of his job is still human connection.
One story in particular has stayed with him over the years. He once read about a man contemplating suicide who decided he would abandon his plans if someone simply acknowledged him that day. No one did.
“You never know what people are going through,” Josh said. “So I always try to connect with people and learn their stories.”
That simple philosophy has made a lasting impact on countless customers.
Whether he's helping someone mail a package, assisting with a passport application, giving local students a tour of the post office, or sharing a laugh in line during the busy holiday season, Josh has spent 28 years doing something increasingly rare: making people feel seen.
And in a close knit community like ʻEwa Beach, that may be the most important delivery of all.
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