Dear Sisters and Brothers:
On this day, every year, we remember the tragic events of September 11, 2001, and the countless lives impacted on that terrible day. Among those deeply affected were the airline employees who watched in horror as American Airlines Flight 11 and United Airlines Flight 175 crashed into the World Trade Center towers in New York City, American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into The Pentagon in Washington, DC and United Airlines Flight 93 crashed outside Shanksville, PA.
For airline employees, including our own IAM members, the loss of colleagues and friends was devastating. These losses created profound feelings of grief and mourning within the aviation community, feelings that many of us endure to this day. But even as we coped with grief in the aftermath of 9/11, we came together in solidarity to support each other in ways that transcended company and union boundaries.
As we remember 9/11, let us never forget our fellow workers and union members who were victims of this tragedy, and those who rose up as heroes in the days and weeks afterward, especially the first responders. Their bravery, sacrifice and unwavering commitment to safety serve as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit. On this solemn day, we honor their memory and reflect on the enduring strength of the airline industry and our union.
Keith Maynard, IAM
Marianne MacFarlane, IAM
Jesus Sanchez, IAM
James W. Barbella, TCU/IAM
Edward Calderon, TCU/IAM
Rocco Medaglia, TCU/IAM
Eugene Raggio, TCU/IAM
Edward T. Strauss, TCU/IAM
To anyone we may have missed, we honor your memory and sacrifice.
Sincerely and fraternally,
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President/Directing General Chair
District 142
