Statement By UAW President in Observance of Memorial Day

    DETROIT, May 25 The following statement by UAW President
Stephen P. Yokich is issued in observance of Memorial Day, on May 28, 2001:

    It is primarily working people who keep our country free and prosperous.
Today, we all join in saluting those who serve in the Armed Forces.

    Many active and retired members of our union are proud veterans of our
country's uniformed services, and our union strongly supports programs that
maintain and improve the quality of life of America's veterans and their
families.

    During the 106th Congress, the UAW advocated for recognition of 25 million
veterans from World War II, the Korean War, Vietnam and the Persian Gulf by
providing well-funded services, such as enhanced education and job training,
as well as better health care programs.

    Along with many other organizations and individuals, the UAW advocated for
passage of the Veterans' Benefits and Health Care Act of 2000.  We are pleased
that Congress passed this important legislation, which will expand and improve
health care and education benefits for veterans, their survivors, and their
dependents.

    The UAW will continue to advocate on behalf of veterans' programs in
Congress and at all levels of government, and our UAW Veterans Department will
continue to recognize the important role that veterans play within our union.
We know that the sacrifices of yesterday's service men and women have opened
doors of opportunities for today's society.