Local 1155’s
Symbol of victory

On December 17, 1999, Local 1155 members ratified a new five-year agreement with Pemco Aeroplex. Contract ratification is a normal occurrence for most locals around the country, but for these Birmingham, Ala., members, it signified the triumph of overcoming a rocky and turbulent past.

Formed in June 1952, Local 1155 enjoyed amicable relations with Pemco until 1959 when a wildcat strike took place in response to unresolved issues. Then beginning 1977, Pemco workers were forced by management to embark on a tedious journey of work stoppages. The first strike lasted four weeks.

This was followed by a six-week strike in 1983 and an eight-week strike in 1986. In 1989, poor labor-management relations forced the union to strike again—this time for more than four months as members walked picket duty in the freezing cold. This strike culminated with Pemco hiring contractors as temporary replacements.

The latest strike in 1996 saw members watching from the picket line while over 500 permanent replacements took their jobs. It took eight long months before all the scabs were sent on their way, and Local 1155 members returned to their jobs.

These loyal union members have learned that endurance and fighting back ultimately lead to victory despite untold hardships. The UAW flag that flies proudly above their workplace today is a symbol of these union workers’ perseverance, unity, and untiring dedication.

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