Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) are commemorating the lives lost during the September 11, 2001 attacks. The IAM Air Transport division has released a statement to honor both union members and others who died that day.
The message, issued by Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President, recognizes eight union members who were among the victims: Marianne MacFarlane, Keith Maynard, and Jesus Sanchez from IAM; and James W. Barbella, Edward Calderon, Rocco Medaglia, Eugene Raggio, and Edward T. Strauss from TCU/IAM.
Johnsen stated: “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”
He 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.”
The statement concludes with a pledge: “We will never forget.”
