UMWA mourns loss of L.U. 1501 member at Robinson Run mine

[TRIANGLE, VA] United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E. Roberts issued the following statement today:

"The hearts and prayers of the entire UMWA membership are with the family of our brother, Markel J. Koon, who was recovered from the slurry impoundment at the Robinson Run mine earlier today.

"On behalf of our union, I want to thank those who worked tirelessly over 14 days to recover Brother Koon, including the Local Union 1501, UMWA District 31 and International Union leaders and safety experts who participated in this effort,  West Virginia Office of Miners' Health, Safety and Training personnel, Mine Safety and Health Administration personnel and Consol Energy personnel who were involved with this recovery.

"I especially commend the selfless efforts of the divers, who at great personal risk braved a difficult and dangerous environment to bring this tragedy to an end.

"Because of all their efforts, Brother Koon's family can now have some measure of closure. As we turn our attention to why this tragedy occurred and what we need to do to keep something like this from ever happening again, let us keep Brother Koon's family foremost in our minds."