Honors Reps. LoBiondo, DeFazio For Commitment To Safety
The National Air Traffic Controllers
Association honored Rep. Frank LoBiondo (R-NJ) and Rep. Peter
DeFazio (D-OR) with its annual "Sentinel of Safety" award during
each Congressman’s respective appearances Tuesday before more
than 350 air traffic controllers gathered at NATCA’s annual
legislative conference, "NATCA in Washington."
The "Sentinel of Safety" Award was created as a way to honor a
member of the aviation and legislative communities who has
displayed outstanding achievement in the advancement of aviation
safety. The award is open to all leaders of the aviation community,
with a special emphasis on those whose leadership on aviation
safety issues NATCA considers to be historic, aggressive and
courageous.
A former ranking member of the House Aviation Subcommittee and
now a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure
committee, Congressman DeFazio has dedicated himself to promoting
efficiency and fairness for all users of the National Airspace
System, according to the controllers union. Throughout his
Congressional tenure, DeFazio has authored, co-sponsored and
supported bills and initiatives calling for vast overhauls in the
aviation system -- including his introduction of legislation that
would amend Title 49 of the Federal Code, to provide an expanded
collective bargaining process for FAA employees.
"Congressman DeFazio has fought to ensure that the United States
continues to operate the safest and most efficient aviation system
in the world. He has been the voice of reason and integrity and a
champion for aviation employees," said NATCA President Patrick
Forrey. "Throughout his career, he has stood as a friend for NATCA,
often times selflessly defending us from our sharpest critics. His
pointed commentary during committee hearings and working sessions
has always been spot on in its support of NATCA, our membership and
most importantly, the flying public."
Currently serving his seventh term in the US House, Congressman
LoBiondo is also beginning his fourth year as the Co-Chair of the
Republican Labor Caucus. In that role, NATCA states, he has been an
outspoken leader on issues affecting the lives of working union
members and their families. Most notably, the union says LoBiondo
has championed NATCA's fight with the FAA for a new collective
bargaining agreement. He has also co-sponsored legislation to
improve aviation security after 9/11, supported beefed up and
standardized training for aviation cabin crews, and voted to
implement the recommendations of the 9/11 Commission.
"As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure
Committee (including the Aviation Subcommittee), Congressman
LoBiondo has stood up time and again for NATCA, fighting with the
FAA on our behalf for a fair contract and a positive work
environment for our members," Forrey said. "For that great effort
we owe him a debt of gratitude."