Congratulating Bob Martinez, Jr., on His Retirement

Floor Speech

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Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, in 1980, Bob Martinez, Jr., stepped foot into Local 776 in Fort Worth to help keep our Nation free and safe by building some of the best aerospace machinery that the world has ever seen.

During his 8 years as international president of IAM, he brought that same dedication, that same effort--all of that achievement that he brought from 1980 until he became president of the IAM--with him to the job that he took.

As a U.S. Naval Air veteran, his journey in the labor movement, again, began in 1980. Bob went on to become the 14th president of IAM, but he was the first Latino to lead this major union.

Under his leadership, IAM has absolutely thrived and helped make this organization the powerhouse that it is today. He used his position to advocate for men and women all over the United States, not just Fort Worth, during his career.

I extend Bob a big congratulations on his career and his unwavering dedication to working families all over North America and trade unions.

I wish Bob good luck and welcome him back to Fort Worth and North Richland Hills. We are happy to have Bob home and congratulate him on all of his achievements.

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