Mr. Gobeil's Medals, Ruth's Reusable Resources

One of the most rewarding responsibilities that I have as a Senator is to help constituents who are having problems with federal agencies. From time to time, a veteran, usually one who served in World War II, will ask me to assist him in securing medals that he earned but never received or has lost. Such was the case recently when I had the honor of presenting Rene Gobeil of Biddeford with a Bronze Star and Purple Heart, as well as other medals that he earned during his service to our country more than 60 years ago.

Mr. Gobeil, now 80, joined the Army when he was just 18, and six months later he was already in combat. He fought on the front lines and was wounded in the Battle of the Bulge, just like my own father. After two years of combat, he came back to his hometown of Biddeford where he has lived ever since. I think it meant a lot to Mr. Gobeil to have his service and sacrifice recognized.

Another heartwarming experience last week was the opening of the new headquarters for Ruth's Reusable Resources on Blueberry Road in Portland. If ever there were an example of one woman making a difference, it is Ruth Libby. More than a decade ago, she conceived the idea of taking unwanted supplies from area businesses and making them available to local school teachers. Her "store" allows businesses to dispose of unneeded materials and schools to get needed supplies, while keeping perfectly good materials from ending up in landfills. UNUM was instrumental in helping Ruth afford a huge building to contain all the donated supplies which range from endless rolls of felt to boxes of markers to skeins of yarn. I was delighted to participate in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for this new facility and to recognize Ruth, her family, and the scores of volunteers who give the three R's a whole new meaning!