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WASHINGTON, D.C. (July 13) - Retired former United Transportation Union (UTU) President Al H. Chesser emphasized the importance of transportation labor's largest political action committee in a fiery and inspirational speech delivered at a ceremony Sunday marking the dedication of the UTU's new Washington, D.C., legislative headquarters.
The new office facilities, dedicated in honor of the 85-year-old Chesser, are located in a building wholly owned by the UTU just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol.
In his remarks, Chesser pointed out the direct relationship that exists between membership support of the UTU's Transportation Political Education League (TPEL) and job security for unionized workers, especially in an era characterized by corporate consolidations, increased international trade and a conservative political environment.
"During the 18 years beginning in 1961 that I served this great union as national legislative director and then as its president, we achieved effective improvements in safety and protective legislation for our members, and all of transportation labor, because of our close relationship with our proven friends here in Washington, D.C.," Chesser said.
"We remain the strongest, most efficient and effective transportation union in the U.S. and Canada, largely because of our efforts here, and because of the leadership and action taken by UTU International President Charles L. Little and Assistant President Byron A. Boyd, Jr.," Chesser declared. "And to their credit, they working for them here in Washington National Legislative Director James Brunkenhoefer, better known to you as 'Brokenrail.' He's the tops in town. He knows where they hide the ball, and I rest well at night because he's here."
Regarding the dedication of the new legislative headquarters in his honor as the highlight of his life, Chesser expressed his appreciation to the UTU's officers and membership.
"I love this union," he said. "Never once has its integrity been questioned.
We are responsible and respected by our neighbors. Never have we crossed the picket line of another labor organization. And never have we offered to taken another's job at a cut-rate price."
The irrepressible octogenarian noted he still buys "green bananas. You usually have to die to get something dedicated to you. But I'm not ready yet."
The UTU's new legislative headquarters in Washington, D.C., are located at 304 Pennsylvania Ave. SE, Washington, DC 20003, and can be reached by telephone at (202) 543-7714, and by fax at (202) 543-0015.
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Last modified: May 25, 2000
