News Release posted: [April 5, 2021]
WASHINGTON, DC – On the 11th anniversary of the explosion at West Virginia’s Upper Big Branch mine, U.S. Secretary of Labor Marty Walsh today issued the following statement:
“Today, we mark the 11th anniversary of the massive explosion at the Upper Big Branch mine and the needless deaths of 29 miners. It remains the worst U.S. mining disaster in five decades. Today, the department’s Mine Safety and Health Administration’s district manager in Beckley, West Virginia, is laying a wreath at the Upper Big Branch Memorial site in Whitesville to honor the lives lost.
“On behalf of the Department of Labor and its Mine Safety and Health Administration, I ask that we pause to remember these miners and their families for their contributions to our nation, and their sacrifices. Events like these are tragic reminders of the importance of improving miner safety and health. We must take every action possible to avoid terrible events like this, and ensure that all miners return home safe and healthy after every shift.”
Agency
Mine Safety & Health Administration
Date April 5, 2021
Release Number 21-609-NAT
Contact: Laura McGinnis
Phone Number 202-693-4653
Email mcginnis.laura.k@dol.gov
Contact: Grant Vaught
Phone Number 202-693-4672
Emailvaught.grant.e@dol.gov