After reading about Helmets to Hardhats, I'm glad things have changed for veterans in this area, particularly at Iron Workers Local 395.
As a returning Vietnam veteran, I went to Local 395 under the direction of my uncle Philip Duffy, a well established ironworker and member of Local 395.
When I met (an official) in 1971 at his Hammond office, I stated I'm Phil Duffy's nephew, just returned home and ready to go to work. His reply was "I don't give a *** where you were or who sent you, and no ***** goes to work until I say you go to work." Needless to say, I never became an ironworker.
That was my experience with Local 395. One of many "welcome home" experiences I have never forgotten.
- Louis J. Roman, LaPorte
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