Dear Sisters and Brothers:
As we observe Memorial Day this Monday, we pause as a nation to honor and remember the brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. Originally known as Decoration Day, the observance began in the years following the Civil War as communities gathered to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. Over time, Memorial Day became a national day of remembrance dedicated to all American service members who gave their lives defending the freedoms we enjoy today.
For Americans, Memorial Day is far more than the unofficial start of summer. It is a solemn reminder of the cost of liberty and the courage of those who answered the call to serve, knowing the risks that came with that commitment. Their sacrifice secured freedoms and opportunities for future generations, and their legacy continues to inspire our nation. The debt owed to those who gave their lives in defense of freedom is one that can never truly be repaid.
For the members of IAM District 142, Memorial Day carries special meaning. Our union has long been built by proud veterans, military families, and working people who deeply understand the values of service, sacrifice, solidarity, and duty. We recognize that many of the rights and freedoms we exercise every day, including the ability to organize, speak freely, and advocate for working families, have been preserved through the sacrifices of those who served our nation.
This Memorial Day, IAM District 142 honors the memory of all fallen service members and extends our deepest gratitude to the families they left behind. We will never forget those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. Their courage and sacrifice remain forever woven into the fabric of our nation, and we proudly stand in remembrance and gratitude for all they gave on behalf of us all.
John M. Coveny, Jr.
President/Directing General Chair