Plumbing Service Class Volunteers at American Legion Post 26

In late September, seven apprentices from the Local 25 plumbing service class volunteered their time at the former Plumbers and Steamfitters UA Local 387 — now the American Legion Post 26.

 

 

As with any building that sees regular wear and tear, some minor issues have cropped up at the American Legion’s facility; most recently, a blocked waste pipe. Dave Jones, commander of the post, remembered Local 25 apprentices helped repurpose the inside of a trailer a number of years ago to make showers accessible to area homeless veterans through Bridging the Gap Stand Down. Already familiar with the quality of our work, he reached out to Training Coordinator Chuck McKnight to see how we could help.

“Volunteer work like this is perfect for our plumbing service class because it allows them to get out of the classroom and gives them hands-on experience,” said Craig Buckwalter, plumbing instructor.

Our fourth-year apprentices performed checks on the following and made sure everything was up to standard:

• 3 urinals
• 2 water closets
• Replaced flush valves to touchless sensors
• Checked sewer main

“It’s cool for our apprentices to see the history of where our union was compared to where we are now and see the growth our organization has experienced through the years,” Chuck said. “Plus, we get the honor of helping one of the biggest Legion posts in the state, who provides important services to the veterans in our community. It’s a win-win.”