The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) has marked Veterans Day in the United States and Remembrance Day in Canada by honoring the service and sacrifice of military veterans within its membership and beyond. In a statement released to union members, IAM International President Brian Bryant emphasized the organization’s gratitude for those who have served.
“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,” said Bryant.
Bryant also highlighted that many veterans bring leadership skills, discipline, and unity back into their communities when they return home. He stated that these qualities “strengthen our union and inspire us all to keep fighting for dignity, justice, and respect on the job.”
This year, IAM achieved recognition from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs as an official national Veterans Service Organization (VSO). 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.”
The message concluded with appreciation for all veterans: “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.”
The statement was issued on behalf of Bryant as well as other members of the IAM Executive Council.
