It may not always be pleasant but somebody's got to do it.

And when it comes to town-owned buildings, Dwayne Vaughn is that somebody.

His efforts to maintain the town's buildings earned the lifelong resident the 2011 Apex Employee of the Year award.

"I consider it an honor and a privilege just to be considered for this thing," Vaughn said. "I'm really appreciative." Vaughn, a facility maintenance worker, was nominated for the award by his peers.

"Dependable, reliable, conscientious, caring and compassionate" were the words his fellow staffers used in nominating him, according to a statement released by the town.

Vaughn's career began with Apex in 1964 as a utilities meter reader.

He worked for the town for three years before leaving for the private sector.

But he couldn't stay away forever.

After 30 years, Vaughn returned in 1997 to work as an electric ground worker.

In 2002, when he became the town's facility maintenance mechanic.

Apex Fleet Supervisor Paul Butler has known Vaughn since his days with the electric department.

"When people ask him to do something he never complains," Butler said. " I know he's had to come in with contractors on Saturday. A lot of times he sees something, and he will do it before anyone asks him to do it."

Vaughn even came to Butler's rescue one evening when Butler left his keys in the office and couldn't get off campus.

"Within a few minutes he got me out," Butler said.

But Vaughn isn't just a maintenance worker. He has also been a volunteer member of the Apex Fire Department for more than 45 years, according to the town.

He semi-retired as a volunteer firefighter about five years ago but keeps his certifications and training current, Vaughn said.

"Town Manager Bruce Radford compared Vaughn to the U.S. Calvary, 'If it does not work, Dwayne is the first on the scene, prepared to make it work. Day or night, Dwayne is willing to come in without hesitation, and able to make something function as it should. He is greatly deserving of this recognition,' " read the statement.

At the Dec 14 luncheon 64 employees received milestone awards for reaching 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25 years of service. Senior Electric Line Technician Ronnie McLamb was recognized for 30 years of service.