Earlier this year Union Review posted an article on an organization called Helmets to Hardhats. This group connects National Guard, Reserve and transitioning active-duty military members with quality career training and employment opportunities within the construction industry and other trades. Learning about them was a glimmer of light at the end of a dark tunnel for many people in regard to the current war.

Today there is a release circulating that speaks of their work in action, and it not only deserves a place here on Union Review, but support, solidarity and a round of applause for their fantastic work.

Up in Windsor Locks, Conn., local building trades unions joined up with Helmets to Hardhats to assist a local veteran named Sgt. Barry Albert. The soldier lost a leg as a result of a May 14th attack on four US Army vehicles in Iraq.

The 42 year-old war hero was driving the lead vehicle near the city of Al Hillah when he sustained significant shrapnel injuries to his leg, yet continued to drive his passengers to safety, including a wounded comrade.

When his story was heard it was clearly identified that Sgt. Albert and his wife, Susan, needed to have their home retro fitted to accommodate his injury.  The Helmets to Hardhats along with another group called Heroes to Hometowns and American Legion Post 36 in Windsor Locks reached out to the building trades unions in the greater Hartford area to help coordinate the effort.

And frankly, the unions came through … in a big way! They donated all labor and materials to make this happen. We learned today that the renovation work has begun and completion is expected within the next two weeks.

We take off our hats and say thank you to these union workers and salute Sgt. Albert for all doing a great job!