MIDDLETOWN, Connecticut – Workers, family members, and elected officials are set to pay tribute to the six workers who lost their lives in the Kleen Energy power plant explosion of 2010, as announced by the Connecticut AFL-CIO Health & Safety Committee.
The labor union will be hosting a memorial service at 11 a.m. on Sunday, February 4, at the permanent memorial outside the Kleen Energy plant in Middletown to honor the lives lost in the tragic explosion that occurred 14 years ago.
The devastating explosion occurred on February 7, 2010, claiming the lives of five workers and injuring many others. Tragically, another worker succumbed to injuries sustained in the blast. This year’s ceremony will be attended by some of the families of the deceased workers, who will gather to celebrate the lives of their loved ones and share heartfelt stories.
Among the speakers at the event will be Lt. Gov. Susan Bysiewicz, Middletown Mayor Ben Florsheim, Middletown South Fire District Chief James Trzaski, and Connecticut AFL-CIO President Ed Hawthorne, all of whom will offer their respects and share words of tribute for the fallen workers.
The event, organized by retired UA Local 777 member Paul Venti and the Connecticut AFL-CIO Health & Safety Committee, will provide an opportunity for both family members and fellow union members to commemorate and recall the lives of the dearly departed.
The memorial service is scheduled to take place at 1349 River Road, Middletown, and aims to be a poignant yet uplifting event, allowing participants to reminisce and honor the lasting legacies of the workers who lost their lives in the tragic incident.