Happiness at work on a military base

I just got this hilarious email from Dean Langsam:

Hi. I’m Dean, a casual follower.

I work at a military base. The base has two entrances, one to the north and one to the south. The entrances have guards – regular soldiers who have other jobs but once every few month they have this guard duty for a week.

Let me tell you it is a CRAPPY duty, but it must be done. Most soldiers hate it and show it, telling you “good day” with out really meaning it.

But today, I showed my credentials to the soldier, and he replied “Good day sir, thank you for choosing the northern entrance”.  It was funny and made my day nicer, his day nicer and I’m sure it had a positive effect on many people.

It was wonderful.

That is just awesome :)

Have you ever had a similar interaction with someone who went out of their way to create a little happiness in their job? I’d love to hear your story.