CLEVELAND, May 23 — U.S. Vice President Joseph R. Biden Jr. thanked members of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen for “always placing the rights of American workers as your top priority” in a May 8 letter to National President Dennis Pierce, honoring the Organization’s 150th anniversary.
“Congratulations to all the members and officers of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) on celebrating your 150th anniversary,” Vice President Biden wrote. “It is a pleasure to send my best wishes to all of the BLET on this occasion. Since its inception in 1863 as the Brotherhood of the Footboard, the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen has grown into one of the oldest and most impactful labor unions in the United States.”
The BLET was also honored by Rep. Timothy J. Walz (D-MN), who made a statement on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives recognizing the BLET’s 150th anniversary on May 8.
“As America expanded westward, locomotive engineers and trainmen led the way,” Rep. Walz said. “Our men and women on the railroads connected two oceans and opened up the new frontier. As we expand into new technology and high-speed rail, locomotive engineers will continue to propel the American economy forward. In recognition of their 150th anniversary, I ask my colleagues to join me in passing a resolution to honor them for their contributions in growing this great nation.”
The video is available on YouTube: youtu.be/P1j6_0H4cys
In addition to previously reported state-level resolutions, the BLET and its members were honored by resolutions adopted by the Illinois House, Illinois Senate and the Missouri House of Representatives.
A copy of the Biden letter, as well as the Illinois and Missouri resolutions, is available as PDF here:
www.ble-t.org/pr/pdf/150_biden.pdf
“The BLET 150th anniversary celebration was a wonderful event,” National President Dennis R. Pierce said. “I am proud that we recognized this historic occasion in a dignified manner, paying respects to our founding fathers, recognizing their achievements, and providing motivation to today’s members. Let us take inspiration and pride from this celebration of our heritage as we move forward to face the challenges that lie ahead.”