The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) marked Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada by honoring those who have served in the armed forces. The union expressed appreciation for veterans’ dedication, sacrifice, and commitment to service.
In a message to IAM members, International President Brian Bryant stated, “We owe a profound debt of gratitude to the men and women who have stood on the front lines to defend our freedom, protect our democracy, and the values we hold dear. Their courage, sacrifice, and commitment to service represent the very best of us.”
Bryant also emphasized that veterans continue their service after returning home: “The same dedication that drives our veterans to defend our nation is what fuels their determination to build a better future for working families when they return home. Their leadership, discipline, and unity strengthen our union and inspire us all to keep fighting for dignity, justice, and respect on the job.”
This year marks a milestone for IAM with its Veterans Services Program being officially recognized as a national Veterans Service Organization (VSO) by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. According to Bryant: “Through the IAM Veterans Services Program, the IAM became the first and only labor union officially recognized as a national Veterans Service Organization (VSO) by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). This historic designation highlights our union’s long-standing commitment to supporting those who have served in the military. It ensures that IAM military veterans and their families now have direct access to essential benefits, trusted representation, and a strong advocate to help them navigate the system they have honorably earned.”
Addressing all IAM Union veterans as well as every veteran more broadly, Bryant said: “To all IAM Union veterans and to every veteran: Thank you! Your courage and service remind us what true solidarity looks like. We may never be able to repay the full measure of your sacrifice, but we can and must honor it – by standing up for one another, by fighting for peace and fairness, and by ensuring that every veteran and their family receives the care, opportunity, and respect they deserve.”
On behalf of himself and other members of executive leadership at IAM Union he concluded: “On behalf of the entire IAM Executive Council, we salute you.”
