Larry Klukas accepting the appointment as 2006 AFL-CIO Labor Day Parade Marshal.

Larry still having a difficult time believing his selection as Labor Day Parade Marshal.

July 24, 2006

            At his workplace of the Trane Toolroom, surrounded by his Local Lodge brothers and many other co-workers, Larry Klukas received the news that he was nominated for Parade marshal of the AFL-CIO Labor Day parade. “I am totally shocked and humbled by this honor!” said Larry. Larry Klukas is a Local Lodge 1115 labor veteran. He has seen 8 negotiations and has 27 ½ years of seniority with the Local at Trane.

            Larry has gratefully accepted this honor bestowed on him by the delegates of the Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO. He is recognized for his dedication and commitment over the many years working hard for the members of all Unions. Larry has served as president of IAM Local Lodge 1115, Delegate to IAM District Lodge 66, AFL-CIO Council Delegate, IAM Grand Lodge Convention(s) Delegate, and many other union positions. He currently is the Shop Chairman for Local Lodge 1115 Trane Toolroom.

            Larry got involved soon after his hire at Trane 27 years ago. In fact, Larry says he had the opportunity after one year and three months to get involved, but who the heck is counting. “I thought I could bring ideas, make a change to labor to make a difference. I could help by being involved.” His advice to new members to the Union is to get involved in the Union movement. He comments that Union history is not being taught in our schools. “Children do not know that Labor was the start of the 8 hour day, health insurance benefits, and pension for retirements. These are all a product of negotiations and being united together.” This subject should be taught in our history classes!” said Larry. He added, “Unions work for respect and dignity for all workers.”

            Larry most cherished his opportunities to attend schools for workers such as the IAM William W. Wispinsinger Education and Technology Center in Hollywood , MD. He loved conversations and interaction with other Union Sisters and Brothers there and at the many other meetings he has attended throughout his Union career.

            Larry has learned that negotiations can be a spectrum of options: respectful, hard case, hard negotiating and not so respectful. He has seen a variety of negotiations and believes they have changed for the better in recent times.

            Larry had praise for his Local Lodge 1115 Sisters and Brothers. “I have the utmost respect and praise for all the members of my Local. To have many different work groups come together for one common cause is the rallying call of our Local. I am proud of each and every member.” Larry’s Local represents members from Crown, Cork and Seal; Dyncorp; Trane Toolroom; Northwest Trucks; Union Office Solutions; American Unions’ Embroidery; and LUXCO Toolroom.

            Larry said, “I would like to thank the Western Wisconsin AFL-CIO Council for this honor of Labor Day Parade Marshal. I am truly humbled by their thoughtfulness.” He added, “I would encourage all union members to come out on Labor Day and march in the parade. Being together, united together, and marching together shows the strength of Unions. Enjoy the day, the marching and certainly the Labor fest following the parade! See ya all there!”

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