NEW YORK, Nov. 26, 2014 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Stating that a group of heroes remains unrecognized, unsung and unknown, the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations – NECO today delivered a Thanksgiving proclamation to thank and honor the men and women of International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 30 who helped save and restore Ellis Island during Superstorm Sandy.
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NECO Chairman Nasser J. Kazeminy stated, "It's time we thanked Local 30 for their extraordinary work during Superstorm Sandy. Few know of the fact that a strong contingent from this union volunteered to stay behind on Ellis Island when this lethal storm descended on the New York metro area some two years ago. Few know of their courageous stand against the sea as they sought to preserve and protect this national landmark. And fewer still know of their extraordinary work in restoring power, pumps and life to this living icon of American democracy after Sandy departed. We intend to rectify this gap in our collective appreciation of how our region recovered from this devastating storm."
In accepting the award, Local 30's Business Manager William Lynn stated, "When members of our Local made the decision to confront the storm by staying on Ellis Island, they did so not for the purpose of securing this much welcomed commendation but in recognition that they had been entrusted with a space that has directly touched the lives of millions of American families. In some instances, the great grandfathers of those who sought to minimize damage on the island had walked this very space."
Presenting the proclamation of thanks on the eve of our national holiday of Thanksgiving, Mr. Kazeminy noted, "Were it not for the prompt and efficient response by Local 30 to the flooding that overwhelmed the infrastructure on Ellis Island, the very stability of the Great Hall itself would have been placed in jeopardy. In a race against time and the elements, Local 30 deployed every resource to restore the island and prevent additional damage."
About NECO
The National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) was created on the conviction of its founders that the diversity of the American people is what makes this nation great. Established in 1986, NECO annually presents its Ellis Island Medals of Honor that embody the spirit of America in their celebration of patriotism, tolerance, brotherhood and diversity.
NECO recognizes individuals who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity; all while maintaining the traditions of their ethnic heritage as they embody the American dream.
Both the United States Senate and House of Representatives have officially passed resolutions recognizing the Ellis Island Medals of Honor, which ranks among this country's most prestigious awards. Each year, Ellis Island Medal of Honor recipients are listed in the Congressional Record, honoring those who have made enduring contributions to our nation and to the world.
Additionally, NECO continues its commitment to the restoration and maintenance of Ellis Island, a living tribute to the courage and hope of all immigrants.
About Local 30 and William Lynn
William Lynn is the Business Manager of the International Union of Operating Engineers (IUOE) Local 30. His career mirrors the hard work of fellow members of Local 30 whose responsibilities include running some of the most sophisticated building systems in the nation. Mr. Lynn started with Local 30 as an apprentice and worked his way through that training program to assume various leadership positions at a leading health care complex. In 2004, he became the Local 30 Dispatcher, and two years later was a Lead Organizer. In September 2008, he was appointed as a Business Agent and assumed the role of Local 30's Business Manager during 2014.
