Recently, two Local 776 members retired after both amassing over thirty years of service. The Members worked in different industries: freight and airline maintenance. Still, both attest to their longevity at their respective employers because of being Teamsters and working under exceptional contracts, earning good wages, benefits, and having outstanding representation. Let's meet these Retirees:

Maynard Bertolet retired from ABF Freight on August 1st after 35 years of working for Union Carriers. Maynard started working at Pilot Freight Carriers in 1987, with stops along the way at St Johnsbury and Redstar. For over 35 years, he worked as a dock worker, yard worker, city driver, and road driver. While driving, Maynard amassed over 1 million miles as a road driver and 15,000 hours as a city driver, with no accidents.

Maynard and his wife, Susan, who is still working, have one son and presently no grandkids. They are in the process of restoring a 105-year-old house that includes four bedrooms, three bathrooms, and 44 windows throughout the home. Once Susan retires, there will be time for trips to the beach, vacations, and taking it easy.

Looking back, Maynard reflected, "It's a difficult job; the guys I worked with made it possible to get through. Our Local Union representation is outstanding. I'm pleased with Ron (Local 776 Secretary-Treasurer Ron Hicks) and the job he has done as our BA. I'm very thankful that our Union contract allowed me to retire early."

Local 776 Secretary-Treasurer Ron Hicks congratulates Maynard on his retirement.

Greg Swartz retired from Piedmont Airlines after accruing 34 years of service at the airline. Along the way, Greg worked in all aspects of aircraft maintenance: he was an avionics technician for 14 years, a mechanic for 12 years. Lastly, he worked as a quality control technician for 8 years until his retirement. Greg is a former military officer; he served as an MP (military police) officer while serving our country. Greg credits his military training in enforcing rules as a big help on the job, dealing with aircraft maintenance and safety. Greg’s military time carries over to his home life, where he has four cats: General Maisy, Colonel Boo, Lieutenant Gray, and Sergeant Striker. Sergeant Striker seems to be the family leader, volunteering for the point position on family missions!

With retirement comes free time, and Greg is using some of it to catch up on his retirement list of things to do, taking it easy and enjoying life.

Looking back, Greg commented, “I’d like to thank Piedmont for a 34-year career, and all the overtime they provided to help buy my house! I’m proud to retire as a Teamster; they are a great group. Former BA Eddie Sutton, my present BA Mark Cicak, and my Steward Andy Barnes were always there for me, helping me with their support and friendship, and to win my 3” high stack of grievances filed over the years!”

Local 776 Recording Secretary Mark Cicak (L) congratulates Greg on his retirement.