ASHWAUBENON, Wis. (WFRV) - With kids back in the classroom local crossing guards are also on duty.

In Ashwaubenon kids were greeted by a neighborhood icon.

From his argyle socks to tin lunch box 84 year old Ben Mach is every inch a school boy.

For the past 20 years he has helped people cross the busy intersection of Ridge Road and Marvell Lane.

"It is right close, close to home and that" says Mach. "I thought that would an ideal situation for me and here I am thank god, low and behold".

He has the right skills."You gotta have sharp eyes and nimble feet" Mach explains.

He also has plenty of personality which earned him a special nickname.

"Even some of the High School kids come by this morning saying good morning grandpa" says Mach.

Ben stops traffic for kids, runners and even has treats for four legged friends.

"If you befriend a dog you have a friend for life, but a man you never know when he is going to kick you" says Mach.

With a smile and a wave Ben feels at home on his corner.

"At the end of the day when I sit down I've helped some youngsters, helped the community, helped people. That just gives me a piece of mind" he says.