Veterans Day 2026: A Shared Commitment to Service and Solidarity
On Veterans Day, AFSCME Council 13 honors the men and women who answered the call to serve in our nation’s Armed Forces. We recognize their dedication, courage, and sacrifices in defending our country and protecting our freedoms. We are also grateful for the ways veterans continue to serve and strengthen our communities long after their military service.
For Robert Denison, President of AFSCME Local 2579, that commitment to serving others began in the military and continues today through veterans advocacy and union leadership.
“My advocacy for soldiers and veterans began in 1999 when I was stationed at Fort Campbell,” Denison said. “As a Training NCO, I helped soldiers understand and access their education benefits, while also serving as Rear Detachment Commander, making sure the soldiers and families left behind during deployments were supported and taken care of. Supporting others has always been a part of my service.”
Today, Denison carries that same commitment into his work representing public employees in Blair County and advocating for fellow veterans. As AFSCME Council 13 members prepare for contract negotiations with the Commonwealth, he remains focused on making sure the employees he represents have a strong voice.
“Today, I continue that commitment through my role with AFSCME, advocating for state employees and fighting for fair wages, benefits, and working conditions,” Denison said. “As we work through our contract campaign and prepare for negotiations, it's about making sure the voices of the employees I represent are heard. Whether I'm standing up for my Sisters and Brothers at the bargaining table or helping a fellow veteran navigate available resources, I take that responsibility seriously. It's the same commitment to serving others that I've carried with me throughout my life.”
This Veterans Day, we are grateful to Robert and all veterans for their service, sacrifice, and continued dedication to helping others. Their commitment strengthens our communities, our workplaces, and our union.