Every crisis has new heroes. During the 9/11 attacks, they were the first responders running into burning and crumbling buildings as others ran out. Now, during the Coronavirus pandemic, the most visible heroes are the health care professionals, who are saving others and risking their own lives while doing so. These heroes have much in common with the heroes that we honor today – America’s fallen veterans.

Honoring those who have given their life in service to their country has been a long-standing tradition originating just after the Civil War, and held yearly on May 30th as Decoration Day, where community members would decorate soldiers’ graves with flowers and recite prayers. The name was eventually changed to Memorial Day, and the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 went into effect in 1971, officially establishing it as a federal holiday to be held on the last Monday in May.

Celebrations of Memorial Day have ranged throughout the years from the simple placement of flowers or flags on graves, to community festivals and parades, and many families hold memorial celebrations.

We would encourage all to remember why we celebrate this day as you enjoy holiday festivities. Keep in mind the families of those who have lost a loved one in service to our country.

To all the families and service members who have lost a family member, brother or sister in arms, our thoughts are with you, not only on Memorial Day, but every day.

On this Memorial Day, DCSMEC honors our American heroes, all the veterans who gave their last measure of devotion so that we may live in freedom.

To all our members, as you enjoy time with family and friends, please remember to follow CDC recommendations for COVID-19.

Greeting Brothers & Sisters. As you’re aware we are experiencing unprecedented times. Fear and confusion are abounding in our Country and the world, COVIC-19 has impacted our Armed Services around the globe, our daily routines and now the White House. The pandemic has created new challenges to the economy, businesses and our families. It has also drastically changed the way we work and operate as an organization by creating unknown challenges and changes. With these challenges also comes the concerns on how these issues are being addressed, managed, and implemented.

DCSMEC wants to assure you that we are here to assist you in times like this. Being the organization that represents you, we have heard your concerns and want to share with you how the Union is working to resolve the issues. DCSMEC is in constant contact with Management personnel from ITS, Maintenance, Safety and SBAB working together to address and resolve all your concerns.

DCSMEC has also notified management downtown that now that our work force is back to work, we need to get back to negotiations, starting with compensation and other proposals.

I would like to take a moment to thank all of you who took time from your busy schedule to reach out to us and convey your heart felt support, Arthur and I were moved by your actions and the sheer number of phone calls, we received. 

DCSMEC thanks you for your trust and support.