From today's Imail, the IAM electronic newsletter:
Wichita Striker Killed in Auto Accident
Public services and private remembrances are taking place in Wichita this week for Jeff Hart, a 45-year old father of two who died shortly after being struck by a vehicle early on Monday morning. A member of Local 733, Hart was on his way to join fellow Hawker Beechcraft workers for a rally in support of the strike at HBC.
Hart was crossing the street in front of IAM Strike Headquarters when the accident occurred. Several IAM members, including Mark Huckabee, Joe Cook and his wife Brenda, a registered nurse, provided first aid and performed CPR until police arrived. Unfortunately, Jeff was pronounced dead a short while later.
"Every IAM member is touched and sorrowed by news of this tragedy," said IP Tom Buffenbarger. "Jeff was up before dawn, volunteering his time for his fellow Machinists when he died. I can think of no better way to remember him."
The planned rally and other strike-related activities were cancelled as IAM members in Wichita, who are entering their third week of a strike against Hawker Beechcraft, held prayer vigils and quietly remembered their fallen brother. "The IAM really is a family and at times like this we grieve just as a family would," said Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge, who is coordinating the strike at Hawker Beechcraft. "We are shocked by the sudden and tragic loss of this good man and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Hart, who recently returned to work after open heart surgery, is survived by two children, Rebecca Westerfield and Jared Hart. A memorial fund will be established to provide educational assistance for both children.
"We will mourn, but we will also carry on with the work that Jeff so clearly believed in," said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. "Our resolve to win a fair contract that respects our members and the work they do is stronger than ever."
