• Posted: May 25, 2021
• better careers, IBEW Local 134, IBEW Local 134 Memorial Hall, YouTube video

 

Today marks the third anniversary of the dedication of the IBEW Local 134’s Memorial Hall in Bronzeville. The union hall serves as a meeting place for many events, conferences, and seminars. It also is an emotional reminder of the essential work we do, standing in memory of the brothers and sisters that lost their lives in on-the-job accidents.

“The reason why we’re doing this on Memorial Day is to remember the members that have given the ultimate sacrifice, and that’s losing their lives on our job sites,” said Don Finn, Business Manager of IBEW Local 134 at the time of the 2018 dedication. 

The families of the fallen were invited to the May 25, 2018 dedication to see the wall where their loved ones’ names are memorialized. 

One of the members whose name is inscribed on the wall, Gary Beno’s son and daughter attended the ceremony. Beno was a single father and IBEW Local 134 journeyperson for 29 years before he lost his life on the job. 

“It’s just so heartwarming because 134 was there through the initial processing, so many members were there at the wake for my dad’s service and we got cards and letters and people stopping by the house,” said Brianna Beno, daughter of Gary Beno, at the time of the 208 dedication. “It really means so much being invited back because we’re going on five years now, and that’s when it’s most important because it’s a time when other people forget. It’s nice to know that after all this time, the IBEW is still thinking about us.” 

Thanks to the hard work and dedication of IBEW Local 134 members, and the enduring sacrifice of those who have lost their lives on the job, Memorial Hall will forever embody everything the union stands for, pride in its members, pride in the work, and pride in the community.