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| Striking members of Teamsters Local 519: 'The Dirty Dozen' |
Twelve members of Teamsters Local 519 walked off the job when Cummins Crosspoint tried to impose a contract that took away seniority, just cause and prescription drug benefits while increasing their health insurance deductible to $8,000.
That was on July 16, and they do not intend to cave. The company is paying a price. The 12 Teamsters are diesel mechanics who take pride in their work. Their replacements -- well, apparently not so much.
"Everything they work on comes back," said Bob Van Gorp, trustee for Teamsters Local 519 in Knoxville, Tenn.
"I've never seen guys with more intestinal fortitude than these," Van Gorp said. "These guys are so brave. They're just strong."
And they take pride in their new nickname -- The Dirty Dozen.
We'll keep you posted.