Veterans Day/Remembrance Day 2025: General President Coleman’s message to members

Brothers, sisters and friends,

Today is a sacred day for SMART members and people across our two nations. Today we celebrate Veterans Day in the United States, and we observe Remembrance Day in Canada.

In the U.S., we take the day to honor the men and women who served our country selflessly in the Armed Forces. Every single one of us has had our life changed by our veterans. Today, along with every other day, is an opportunity to reflect on and cherish all that they have done for us.

In Canada, Remembrance Day gives us the chance to remember our Canadian heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. There are no words to express our gratitude for the servicemembers and their families who gave everything to protect our rights and freedoms. I know every single SMART member, across the United States and Canada, feels that way.

We owe so much to all veterans and servicemembers. Across our two nations, they are a true example of our union’s values: service, solidarity and dedicating yourself to your fellow citizens.

Many veterans now build and move our two nations as SMART members, bringing their courage and selflessness from the armed forces to our union. It is my personal honor to welcome these heroes into SMART, whether as sheet metal workers, roofers, bus operators or railroaders. And it speaks volumes to the character of our organization that so many servicemembers find a fulfilling life and career in our trades, including many leaders throughout our union. That should make every single one of us proud.

Today and every day, all of us at SMART pay tribute to our veterans, and we remember every fallen hero who did not return home. To all our veterans: We thank you for your service, your sacrifice and for standing up for all of us.

Happy Veterans Day and Remembrance Day. Please stay safe.

In solidarity,