Rain, sleet or snow, you can count on the Luverne Post Office.

Earlier this month the local branch of the United States Post Office was awarded "The Order of the Yellow Jersey" flag in recognition for outstanding performance and teamwork in satisfying customers.

"There's a new flag flying at the Luverne Post Office in recognition of high marks from customers on our postal team's performance," Luverne Postmaster Marla Brewer said.

The flag can be seen flying in front of the post office just below the American Flag.

According to a release issued by the United Postal Service, the new flag features the Postal Service logo with the eagle body emblazoned in yellow and is awarded to postal facilities that receive high marks in the Customer Satisfaction Measurement - Residential survey, conducted for the Postal Service by The Gallup Organization. The yellow jersey is designed to mirror the symbol of excellence worn by the daily leader and winner of the prestigious Tour de France bicycle race, Lance Armstrong, who is a member of the U.S. Postal Service Pro Cycling team.

Luverne Post Office Sales Associate Mike Hendrick said he is honored to a part of the winning team.

"I think it is great," he said. "I believe we've deserved it for a long time. They've started recognizing jobs well done more than they used to. It seems like a good program."

According to program information, the Postal Service's Office of the Consumer Advocate bases the quarterly award on overall performance plus three key elements of Gallup's survey data - accuracy of delivery, consistency of delivery and professionalism in serving retail customers.

"I'm proud that our employees are being recognized for achieving superior levels of customer satisfaction,' Brewer said. "Our goal is to strive to exceed customer expectations and keep the flag

flying."