[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 96 (Thursday, June 24, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1196]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




        HONORING RON GETTELFINGER FOR HIS LEADERSHIP OF THE UAW

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                            HON. BART STUPAK

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, June 23, 2010

  Mr. STUPAK. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues today to honor the 
career and dedicated service of Ron Gettelfinger, who recently retired 
from his post as president of the United Auto Workers (UAW).
  Mr. Gettelfinger was elected to lead UAW in 2002 after many years in 
national and local roles in the union.
  During his tenure as president, he led UAW through the greatest 
economic crisis since the Great Depression; through the restructuring 
of General Motors and Chrysler; and through multiple negotiations and 
bargaining agreements.
  The past two years were a challenging time for the domestic auto 
industry, and especially for autoworkers. As two of Detroit's ``Big 3'' 
automakers entered bankruptcy, Mr. Gettelfinger fought to ensure the 
millions of UAW workers and retirees received the best deal possible 
under excruciatingly difficult circumstances.
  During his tenure, Mr. Gettelfinger was a steadfast supporter of 
workers' rights. He has been a tireless advocate for workers on key 
policy issues, such as trade and health care.
  Ron Gettelfinger has been a strong advocate of renewing America's 
industrial base, especially the manufacturing sector, because he 
recognizes that good-paying manufacturing jobs are critical to a strong 
middle class, and a strong middle class is key to a healthy economy.
  American workers need more leaders committed to the future of our 
domestic manufacturing base. Mr. Gettelfinger, thank you for your work 
on behalf of UAW and the American worker. I am pleased to join my 
colleagues in honoring your commitment to workers in Michigan and 
throughout the country. On behalf of UAW workers and retirees 
everywhere, I wish you well in retirement and all future endeavors.

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