Aug 18, 2008
ORLANDO, Fla. — Cal Rapson, director of United Auto Workers’ Veterans Department, accepted the Commander-in-Chief’s Gold Medal of Merit on behalf of UAW and Diana Tremblay, vice president of General Motors North America’s Labor Relations, accepted the same award on behalf of GMNA.
They were on hand to present a $150,000 check for VFW’s Unmet Needs, Military Assistance Program, Operation Uplink and Voice of Democracy. GM also gave away a brand-new Chevrolet Malibu Hybrid.
Some 20,000 veterans work for GM/UAW, as well as 300 reservists and National Guardsmen, whose difference in pay is made up by GM when they are mobilized. Rapson outlined his department’s activities. UAW employees designed a special award to recognize VFW’s long-time contributions to veterans. UAW members also built a house at VFW’s National Home in Eaton Rapids, Mich.