The group served under Welfare Commissioner Ed Flowers, who wanted to revamp and reorganize the way things were run. Nicklin, who was in charge of the eight Eastern Panhandle counties in the state, was brought to Charleston to oversee that reform.

"I had to change everything, and people resist change," Nicklin said. "I had to get the welfare law changed in West Virginia. I had to get the ... commission to approve every step."

Nicklin said the state was recognized by the U.S. News & World Report for decreasing the number of welfare cases, while other states' numbers were rising. He added the department opened more offices in more places throughout the state to increase efficiency and cut down on staff travel costs.

"There had been studies made that suggested if we revised and reorganized, we could be better," Nicklin said. "The good news is it worked and we were better."

The work Nicklin did felt worthwhile, he said.

"I enjoyed going to work every day, felt that I was doing something worthwhile and was working with people that I

truly appreciated," Nicklin said. "I benefited just by being with others."

Nicklin and his family lived in Charleston for eight years. While they enjoyed themselves, Nicklin said Berkeley County was always home. He returned to the area after retiring and has lived there for more than 20 years.

"This was where I wanted to be," Nicklin said. "This is our home place."

A humble man, Nicklin said he wasn't expecting any sort of recognition for his work with the Department of Welfare, but he said he felt honored by the award.

"I was proud to be remembered by so many friends after a 40-year period," Nicklin said.

- Staff writer Rachel Molenda can be reached at 304-263-8931, ext. 215, or www.twitter.com/rmolendaJN.