LIMESTONE, Maine — The Loring Job Corps Center of Limestone recently celebrated its very first staff member to reach 25 years of service.
Herman Gaskins joined the Loring Job Corps Center on Oct. 22, 1996, prior to the center’s official opening. He has worked 25 years in the center’s transportation department.
Gaskins, also known as “Smiley,” is often mentioned by former and current students as someone who has always been positive, portrays a welcoming attitude and is pretty much always smiling.
Prior to joining Team Loring, he served 21 years in the United States Air Force, beginning in September 1966 and retiring in April 1987. He continued working at Loring Air Force Base as a civilian employee in civil engineering, maintaining the roads and grounds at the site until the base closure.
“Loring is so proud of his dedicated service and commitment to the success of the center, students and staff,” said Roger Felix, center liaison, enrollment services manager and Honor Guard sergeant major.
In addition Gaskins has dedicated his life to serving others and giving back to this country and the local community through multiple civic and veteran organizations, and has also simply stepped up to help when needed.
As the leader of the transportation area at the center, Herman has driven endless accident-free miles in all types of the weather. He continues to be a mentor, role model and positive influence.
“His ability to help change the lives of our young adults is shown every day and can also be seen in the countless number of students that still check back in decades after their completion to say ‘Thank you’ to Herman for being a positive influence in their lives,” Felix added.
