SRS workers to be honored

The national nuclear weapons program workers - including thousands who are working or who have worked at Savannah River Site - will be recognized with a special day on Friday.

The Department of Energy is holding a National Day of Remembrance for Nuclear Weapons Program Workers that day. Past and present workers at SRS will be honored with the day that recognizes their service to the national defense.

SRS and similar facilities which did the production work for nuclear material and weapons are cited for helping the United States win the Cold War. Men and women used their expertise to produce the materials that made this nation's enemies pause before they considered military action.

Workers at SRS deal with some of the deadliest materials on earth, yet because of their professionalism and dedication to responsible, safe work, they have made the Aiken facility one of the safest industries anywhere.

The success of the nuclear weapons program has meant that all American citizens can live under the banner of liberty. Our freedom, often taken for granted, gets particular notice when an event such as Friday's occurs. Without DOE's acknowledgment of the workers and their achievement over more than half a century, the importance of their work might go unnoticed.

Congratulations to all those who have had a hand in this program which has helped keep our nation strong and free.