Commends Walt Barrows’ Service

Washington, D.C. — Larry I. Willis, president of the Transportation Trades Department, AFL-CIO (TTD), issues the following statement:

“On behalf of our member unions, I want to congratulate the newest members of the Railroad Retirement Board confirmed by the Senate last night – Chairman Erhard R. Chorle, Management Member Thomas Jayne, and Labor Member John Bragg. We look forward to working with all three Members to ensure the stability of our railroad workers’ retirement system and protect the hard-earned benefits that railroad employees have earned and deserve.

“I am particularly pleased that John Bragg will bring his invaluable experience as a front-line rail worker and union official to his new duties as the Labor Member on the Board. Previously a Vice President of the Brotherhood of Railroad Signalmen (BRS), John comes from a long line of railroaders and began his own career 18 years ago as a freight conductor and then a signalman. He has climbed the leadership ranks within his union and most recently was assigned to represent BRS as a permanent Board Member of the National Railroad Adjustment Board. John’s long and accomplished career has prepared him well for this new role.

“Finally I want to take this opportunity to salute the tremendous service offered by retiring Labor Member Walt Barrows during his eight years on the Board. Walt has brought professionalism and expertise to his role as a voice and advocate for rail workers, retirees and their families and has fought every day to improve and protect the railroad retirement system that is critical to so many Americans. Walt leaves a profound legacy that he should be proud of and we wish him the best as he pursues his own, well-deserved retirement.”