Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Air Transport division gathered to honor the memory of those lost in the September 11, 2001 attacks. The union paid tribute to eight members from IAM and TCU/IAM who died that day: Marianne MacFarlane, Keith Maynard, Jesus Sanchez, James W. Barbella, Edward Calderon, Rocco Medaglia, Eugene Raggio, and Edward T. Strauss.
Richie Johnsen, IAM Air Transport Territory General Vice President, addressed the union family 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.”
Johnsen noted how September 11 changed both the world and the union: “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 with a commitment shared by many across the country: “We will never forget.”
The remembrance comes as unions nationwide continue to reflect on their roles during national tragedies.
