Lake City Army Ammunition Plant Workers on Strike

0:00It's April 28th, I'm Cory with the story, and this is Kansas News Today, local news powered by AI. Workers at the Lake City Army ammunition plant and independent have been striking since midnight on April 4th. That's 1,350 members of IAM, local 778, run by Olen Winchester. They just voted down the company's latest contract offer, so the picket lines stay strong with no end in sight. The fights all about fair pay, better benefits, and real work life balance. Entry level folks start at $20.60 to $21.75 an hour, but many pull 60 hour weeks with mandatory, over time and key spots. Union says the company's latest deal only tweaks things slightly, not enough to match rising costs. Leaders are fired up, calling the offer unacceptable and standing solid with the strikers. IAM International President Brian Bryant says members deserve respect for their role in national defense, cranking out most rounds for the Army, Air, Force, Marines, and even NATO allies.

1:03The plant keeps the military stocked with rifle ammo for service members and partners. Union reps point to sky high turnover, from overwork and disrespect when loyal workers push back. No word yet from Olen Winchester, despite outreach, but these machinists show no signs of backing down, holding the line for what's fair.