[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 55 (Thursday, April 14, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E722]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      IN RECOGNITION OF WILLIAM P. HITE AND THE UNITED ASSOCIATION

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BOB FILNER

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 14, 2011

  Mr. FILNER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate General 
President William P. Hite for his selection as the 2011 recipient of 
the Military Officers Association of America's Distinguished Service 
Award.
  This most recent recognition and honor are well deserved. As General 
President of the 350,000 members of the United Association of Plumbers, 
Pipe Fitters, Welders, Sprinkler Fitters, and HVAC Technicians, Bill 
has worked tirelessly to ensure members of our armed forces have access 
to the very best careers in his industry.
  His organization provides one of the best services available to our 
veterans. The Veterans in Piping Program trains veterans for the finest 
careers in the industry. The United Association's Veterans in Piping 
partnership with the Marines at Camp Pendleton is considered by many to 
be the most successful military transition program in the country. 
Secretary of Labor Hilda Solis described it as ``an awesome program'' 
and one that ``should be expanded throughout the United States.'' It 
differs from other programs in that it trains Marines prior to 
discharge--at no cost to the individual--in a certifiable skill, and 
then provides the network and connections to ensure job placement. 
Every graduate of the program has been successfully placed in the 
position of second year Apprentice or higher with the exception of a 
handful who have either re-enlisted or gone on to college.
  General President Hite's service to our armed forces and veterans is 
accentuated by a distinguished career in public service. He was 
appointed by President George W. Bush to the Task Force on Rebuilding 
the Gulf Coast and to the Committee for Trade Policy and Negotiations; 
and, by President Barack Obama to the President's Export Council. He 
has been called upon by the leaders of both of our political parties in 
recognition of his fidelity, objectivity, and candor. These 
characteristics have made him among the most respected labor leaders in 
the United States.
  As we recognize General President Hite and the United Association 
today, I wish to point out that he is a third generation union member 
and the membership of the United Association voluntarily bears all of 
the costs of its veterans programs. The membership supports the men and 
women of our armed forces with a record of commitment that is second to 
none. I am particularly and personally proud of the work that San Diego 
based Local 230 has done to implement this successful and innovative 
program at Camp Pendleton.

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