IAM District 9 in Bridgeton, MO held its second annual military veterans brunch on Sunday, November 10, 2013. Greater St. Louis area veterans from Missouri and Illinois were honored at the event.
Philip J. Gruber, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President
addressing District 9 veterans and their families
"So it is on Veterans Day, that we extol our gratitude on these brave men and women who have fought for our freedom," said GVP Philip J. Gruber. "They are deserving of so much. I believe that from the moment a person raises their hand and is sworn into the armed services, whatever the branch, ...they have moved into a special class of citizen."
The brunch is held to honor and remember the IAM District 9 veterans' service and sacrifice.
Veterans were presented challenge coins upon entering the event and were encouraged to join the Union Veterans Council. The Union Veterans Council brings together union leaders and union members who are veterans to speak out on veterans' issues and influence public policy to improve the quality of life for U.S. veterans and their families.
Guest speakers included Phil Gruber, IAM Midwest Territory General Vice President; Robert Martinez, Jr., IAM Headquarters General Vice President; William Enyart, U.S. Representative IL 12th District; Rick de la Fuente, Co-Director, IAM Legislative Department; Jason Tetidrick, Veterans Brunch Coordinator; Joseph Matteoni, Vice President of DRS Technologies and Mike Nolan, Advisory Board - USO of Missouri. The opening prayer was given by Chaplain Robert Collinwood, Army Captain. The closing prayer was given by Calvin Davis. The colors were presented by the Patttonville Fire District Honor Guard.
