IAM Honors Veterans, Introduces New Veterans Services Program
This Veterans Day in the U.S. and Remembrance Day in Canada, Tuesday, November 11, 2014, the IAM honors our members in the armed forces who are serving and have served our nations.
“Thousands of IAM members have proudly served their country. And many fight on two battlefields – the ongoing fight here at home for fairness and respect on the job and the many fights abroad to ensure peace and freedom for people around the world,” said IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger. “They are our heroes for many reasons. And we thank them for their courage, dedication and willingness to be on the frontlines for our countries and our members.”
In recognition of the honorary holiday, the IAM Retirees, Community and Membership Services Department has announced the IAM Veterans Services Program, which features an online information portal dedicated solely to IAM military veterans in the U.S. and Canada.
“As a union, the IAM recognizes the unique situation and needs of our members who have dedicated their lives to their country,” said 20-year Army veteran and IAM Retirees, Community and Membership Services Director Carlos San Miguel. “We believe it is our duty to help and be of service to those members in any way we can. There is an abundance of public and private programs and services open to military veterans; the problem is very few veterans know what’s available and where to go. The IAM Veterans Services Program seeks to bridge the informational gap between our members and the programs and services they fought for.”
The webpage provides information from various public and private military assistance agencies and organizations such as the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Veterans of Foreign Wars, the American Legion and the Veterans Affairs Canada. Members can find information on many topics, including government programs, benefits, health information and assistance with filing claims.
The information is open to IAM members from all branches of the U.S. and Canadian militaries, including the National Guard and Reserves.
Part of the IAM Veterans Services Program will also include a weeklong planning session at the William W. Winpisinger Center from March 29 – April 3, 2015, where representatives from each IAM Territory and all branches of service will convene to begin crafting coursework and various IAM programs to help meet members’ needs.
“As the nation prepares for a day of remembrance and celebration of the men and women who risk their lives in service to our country, the IAM stands committed to continuing to explore more ways to serve those among us who have sacrificed so others may live freely,” said IAM General Vice President Diane Babineaux.
IAM military veterans are encouraged to sign up to receive more information about the union’s veteran program. Please note that the sign-up form is voluntary.