Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) gathered to remember those lost in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The union paid tribute to eight members from IAM and TCU/IAM who died during the events.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President, addressed union members in a statement: “Today, we gather with heavy hearts to honor and remember those precious lives we tragically lost in 2001. The horrific events of that day left an indelible mark on the fabric of our nation and, most profoundly, on each of us within our cherished union family. Many Americans endured the profound sorrow of losing friends and loved ones, and we, too, mourn the loss of our beloved IAM and TCU/IAM siblings:
1. Marianne MacFarlane, IAM
2. Keith Maynard, IAM
3. Jesus Sanchez, IAM
4. James W. Barbella, TCU/IAM
5. Edward Calderon, TCU/IAM
6. Rocco Medaglia, TCU/IAM
7. Eugene Raggio, TCU/IAM
8. Edward T. Strauss, TCU/IAM”
Johnsen continued: “Our world and our Union changed on that fateful day. We stood together, united in strength and compassion, during that devastating time, just as we always have and always will. Let us continue to hold in our thoughts and hearts the memory of our Air Transport family and all those we lost on that dark day. Their legacy of courage and unity continues to inspire our Union.”
He concluded his message with: “We will never forget.”
The statement comes as part of annual efforts by labor organizations across the country to commemorate victims from their communities who were affected by September 11.
