Members of seven UMWA correction officers local unions participated in classroom and range training on May 26, in Ridgeway, Pa. The morning session began with opening remarks by President Roberts and Secretary-Treasurer Kane.
“Many times we miss the significant roles that Corrections and Police Officers play in our daily lives,” stated President Roberts. “They are always there placing themselves in harms way to protect each one of us. Patrolling the streets of cities and towns to ensure we are safe and maintaining order and security in prisons to safeguard the public is extremely taxing and dangerous work. But this is who they are. This is the sacrifice they make on our behalf every single day. They are truly dedicated and patriotic women and men. I am so proud to know that they are my UMWA Brothers and Sisters.”
The classroom instruction was presented by International District 2 Vice President Ed Yankovich, who has been deeply involved with many of these Local Unions even before they were officially chartered by the UMWA. The training centered around contract enforcement with special emphasis on grievance handling and record keeping. “These are some of the finest members we have in our Union,” said Vice President Yankovich. “They are hard working and committed public servants who must perform professionally under some very difficult circumstances.”
