Dear Sir:

As a retired UTU member and former Local Chairman 1637, I have been reading, with great interest, about the BLE&UTU becoming one, and the subsequent failed effort

In my opinion, it seems that not much has changed, the International Officer's power struggle over-rides the concept of one new union.

One could see the validity of all the International Officers, in both BLE&UTU, remaining in their positions until restructure and a new constitution and constitutional convention could be held. This would allow a smooth transition.

It would seem, at that point, all International Officer's jobs should go up for a vote to reflect the member's true feelings, in the new union, of who should lead and fill the various positions. This, in my opinion, should begin the process of knitting the members together for a strong, single, new union, which should have a new name. It would retire the names of the UTU and BLE into history, where they belong.

You recently referred to the fact that separate unions, fighting each other over the years, has allowed the carriers more leverage. It seems with that age old thought, the International would have opted for a different tactic to reach their goal of forming a new union. A hostile take-over with A-Cards will continue to create animosity and discord that will exist for years, to the detriment of both BLE and UTU members.

Your reply and comment will be appreciated.


Sincerely yours,
/s/W.J. Hudson