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When we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001,we honor the memory of the heroes of that day. There were many heroes including the Firefighters, Port Authority personal, E.M.T's and Police Officers who instinctively and courageously entered the stricken towers to rescue those in need. On the ill-fated planes were Pilots and Flight Attendants who showed bravery in the face of terror.
In the days that followed, members of these same groups sifted through the rubble and smoldering debris to uncover the bodies of victims, including their brothers and sisters. Adding to their numbers were Pipe Fitters, Steel and Iron Workers, Electricians, Plumbers, Truck Drivers and many other Craftsman and Laborers from all over this great country.
Soon after, a new danger arose which caused the death and illness of Postal Workers during the Anthrax terror.
I point out these obvious facts for a reason. In almost every case, these were and are Union members. Yes, those individual that the American public and this President were so quick to embrace and celebrate as true American Heroes, in nearly every case, were and are proud card carrying members of local Unions affiliated with the AFL-CIO
It is for this reason that so many of us as Union members, are appalled that the man who has done his best to destroy our very existence as viable organizations would use the images of our fallen members' sacrifice and heroism as a prop to his political advantage.
It was the performance of these men and woman on that day, and the weeks that followed, that filled me with pride. Pride of not only being an American, but also being an American Union Member.
Since that day this administration has done nothing to help any Union, including those whose members made the supreme sacrifice. As he has done throughout his life, this President wants to shamelessly take credit for the sacrifice of others and then move on to his own agenda.
Louis Ciarlone President IBEW Local 123
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