IAM Lodge 778 sponsored a commemorative event to honor the nuclear weapons workers at the Honeywell FM&T plant in Kansas City, MO. Approximately 500 former and present workers and/or their family members, as well as Federal, State and City officials and delegations were in attendance.
The ceremony also included an Honor Guard, Taps, Rifle Volley, worker procession, floral wreath, tree dedication and much more. The Ruskin High School Band and Choir also performed.
A candle light solidarity rally in conjunction with National Day of Remembrance for Nuclear Weapons Program Workers was held later in the evening. This rally was held in front of the Honeywell FM&T/ DOE Kansas City Plant, 2000 Bannister Road.
The purpose of both rallies was to recognize the sacrifice current, future and past Nuclear Weapons Program Workers have given to their Country.
In addition, the rally brought attention to the current work stoppage at the Honeywell Kansas City Plant, and the workers issues of maintaining access to affordable health care now and in the future, the right to representation for the future, and the standard of living of our future members.
The United States Senate has unanimously approved a Senate Resolution, designating a National Day of Remembrance for All Nuclear Weapons Program Workers. The Office of Health, Safety, & Security (HSS) in the Department of Energy supports and recognizes the important contribution of this workforce.
Glenn Podonsky, Chief Health, Safety & Security Officer HSS encourages the people of the United States to support and participate in events and ceremonies that have been organized as a tribute to past and present workers in Americas Nuclear Weapons Program.
“Whereas these dedicated American workers paid a high price for their service and have developed disabling or fatal illnesses as a result of exposure to beryllium, ionizing radiation, toxic substances and other hazards that are unique to the production and testing of nuclear weapons; Whereas these workers were put at individual risk without their knowledge and consent in order to develop a nuclear weapons program for the benefit of all American citizens; and Whereas these patriotic men and women deserve to be recognized for their contribution, service and sacrifice towards the defense of our great Nation.”
IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President Philip J. Gruber praised our members at Honeywell FM&T saying, "While our members of Local 778 are not on a battlefield and do not face enemy fire, they are Cold War Patriots who put their lives on the line everyday when they go to work. They know they work with hazardous material and chemicals as part of their job and accept that. They helped win the Cold War and deserve respect for doing so."
Our members at Honeywell FM&T / Department of Energy plant make non-nuclear components for nuclear weapons.
(Links to photos and videos from the event. SLIDESHOW, VIDEO 1, VIDEO 2, VIDEO 3, VIDEO 4)
