×

UMW applauds Cera for role in honoring fallen coal miners

HONORED — State Rep. Jack Cera, D-Bellaire, second from right, was honored Oct. 30 with a plaque presentation from the United Mine Workers of District 31 for his role in securing a site for a marker dedicated to the more than 70 coal miners who were killed in an explosion 80 years ago at the Willow Grove Mine. With Cera are, from left, Vice President Rick Altman, District 31, Sub. 6 UMWA; Chairman Ray Wright, Ohio Compac; and Mel Woods, Ohio Compac member. -- Contributed

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Jack Cera, D-Bellaire, was honored Oct. 30 by the United Mine Workers of District 31 at their monthly meeting for his role in honoring the fallen coal miners of Willow Grove Mine.

The recognition came as friends gathered in Zanesville to salute Cera, described as having always been a friend to coal miners in Eastern Ohio.

The Willow Grove Mine, Hanna Coal Co. No. 10 mine, exploded 80 years ago, killing more than 70 men and leaving families devastated. The mine was located 4 miles south of St. Clairsville in Belmont County.

March 16 marked the 80th anniversary of the Willow Grove Mine Explosion. Cera worked with the Division of Forestry to help local miners secure a spot for a marker dedicated to the fallen miners.

The Oct. 30 presentation involved Cera’s receipt of a plaque that will hang at the kiosk located at the site. It reads:

“State Representative Jack Cera, District 96, Ohio House of Representatives. District 31, Sub 6, UMWA would like to express our deepest appreciation and thanks for what you have done for the fallen coal miners and their families of the Willow Grove Mine. Without your commitment and determination, Willow Grove Memorial site would not have been possible.”

The Willow Grove Mine was looked upon as a model mine, one of the safest in the nation. “In fact, many experts believe that the safety features put in place at the mine helped to save lives that fateful day,” a spokesperson noted.

A grateful Cera acknowledged the significant role coal miners have had in building the nation’s economy.

“Coal miners have provided our homes and businesses with affordable electricity for centuries. The coal industry has provided good paying jobs for families, friends, and neighbors for years,” Cera said.

NEWSLETTER

Today's breaking news and more in your inbox

I'm interested in (please check all that apply)
Are you a paying subscriber to the newspaper? *

Starting at $4.73/week.

Subscribe Today