[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 64 (Wednesday, May 8, 2013)]
[House]
[Pages H2493-H2494]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




       HONORING BROTHERHOOD OF LOCOMOTIVE ENGINEERS AND TRAINMEN

  (Mr. WALZ asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 
minute and to revise and extend his remarks.)
  Mr. WALZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 150th anniversary of 
the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen, North America's 
oldest rail labor union. Since its founding on May 8, 1863, the BLET 
has always played a critical role in the transportation of people and 
goods throughout our Nation.
  As America expanded westward, locomotive engineers and trainmen led 
the way. Our men and women on the railroads connected two oceans and 
opened up the new frontier.

[[Page H2494]]

  Today, U.S. railroads transport 2.5 trillion metric tons a year. As 
we expand into new technology and high-speed rail, locomotive engineers 
will continue to propel the American economy forward.
  The Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen now counts 
55,000 active and retired members among its ranks. These are the men 
and women who work around the clock to literally make the trains run on 
time.
  In recognition of the 150th anniversary of the Brotherhood, I ask my 
colleagues to join me in passing a resolution to honor them for their 
contributions in growing this great Nation.

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