The Loyal Patron: A Search and Rescue Story in Pensacola

For a decade, Charlie Hicks was a familiar face at the Shrimp Basket eatery in Pensacola, Florida. Both lunch and dinner saw him enjoying his regular meal: a bowl of gumbo, light on rice, no crackers.

This routine was as predictable as the sunrise, with Charlie making this order every day, twice a day, for ten years, at age 78.

Chef Donell Stallworth noted that Charlie Hicks was as dependable as a clock.

"Mr. Hicks is always punctual," Stallworth told CBS News. "Whenever we open, he's typically here to meet us with a smile."

But it all shifted in September. Hicks did not appear for several days, causing concern.

An Unsettling Absence

"Immediately, I suspected something was off," shared Stallworth.

Worried about his valued customer, Stallworth left his shift midway and headed straight to Hicks' residence. Despite knocking persistently, there was no reply.

"Just when I was about to leave, I heard a faint cry for help," Stallworth recounted. "I entered, finding him on the floor, uncertain of his state, which was truly frightening."

Uncertain about how long he'd been there, Hicks was severely dehydrated and had sustained two fractured ribs. Thanks to Stallworth's timely intervention, he was on the road to recovery. At the Shrimp Basket, they vowed he would never be without company again.

Community Bonds Strengthen

The staff initiated efforts to aid Hicks by delivering his favorite gumbo to the hospital. They also found him a new apartment adjacent to the restaurant, ensuring the community could watch over him.

With new appliances and a refurbished space, all efforts were made so that three months post-recovery, Hicks could seamlessly return to his familiar life.

"Happy you're back," Stallworth warmly greeted when Hicks revisited his cherished haunt for the first time in months.

Once again at his regular spot, Hicks resumed enjoying his beloved dish. The meals remained unchanged, but their friendship deepened.

"A special bond was forged between us," Hicks told CBS News. "We've formed a connection."

Stallworth remarked that having Hicks close by, living next door, "makes everything better."

"He's like family," Stallworth expressed. "He's the uncle, the grandfather, and the closest friend all wrapped into one."