This month, we proudly celebrate the contributions of veterans to our two great nations. Through their commitment and self-sacrifice, generations of service members have made the United States and Canada stronger, safer and better.

Their impact extends beyond our borders and into our union.

From the founding of the IBEW, we have been honored to count many military veterans among our ranks. Every veteran brings the loyalty, pride and camaraderie forged in the military, qualities that enrich our jobsites, local halls and the broader IBEW family. We couldn’t be prouder to call them brothers and sisters.

As highlighted in this issue of The Electrical Worker, we are honoring them by sending a challenge coin to every IBEW veteran.

But this coin is more than just a gesture of thanks. I hope it also serves as a catalyst, a reminder of how vital it is for locals to continue and expand their efforts to recruit more servicemen and -women into the IBEW.

We have invested heavily in outreach to veterans. This includes hiring an international representative for veterans’ affairs and expanding the Veterans Electrical Entry Program. We also have Veterans Committees at the international, districts and local levels that not only support IBEW veterans but also create pathways into our union and industry for transitioning military members.

Across the U.S. and Canada, we’ve seen an inspiring rise in veteran activism at the local level. In just the past few years, IBEW veterans have organized more than 70 local Veterans Committees in every district, with more on the horizon.

If you’re a veteran and your local has a Veterans Committee, I encourage you to get involved. Your perspective and shared experiences are essential to building connections with fellow vets and strengthening our union. If your local doesn’t yet have a committee, take the lead. Speak with your business manager. Reach out to fellow veterans.

And be sure to download our Field Guide to Setting Up a Veterans Committee ibew.org/veterans.

Most of all, I’m asking you to help grow the IBEW.

The most critical job for the IBEW right now is organizing, and former servicemen and servicewomen are ideal targets. These are folks who know how to work with their hands and heads, take pride in a job well done, and know what it means to work as part of a team.

As veterans, you are our best messengers when it comes to talking about all the good things the IBEW provides.

As we prepare to celebrate Veterans Day and Remembrance Day, let’s continue honoring the service of our veterans, not just with words, but with action, by opening the doors of opportunity to them in the IBEW.