Independence Day Message from Communications Committee

Fellow Pilots,

Happy Independence Day.

As our nation celebrates its 249th birthday, we’re reminded of the enduring spirit that built this country: courage, unity, and the relentless pursuit of a better future. Whether you’re flying this weekend or enjoying time at home with loved ones, we hope you find a moment to reflect, recharge, and reconnect with what matters most.

This 4th of July, we also recognize our own fight—a fight for an industry-standard contract that reflects our value, our professionalism, and our sacrifices. Make no mistake, this will be a hard-fought battle. We face a company that has resisted progress at every turn and shown consistent hostility toward union efforts. But we are not the first to walk this path—and we are not walking it alone.

We’ve been reaching out to pilots who stood in this arena before us—those who laid the groundwork, who faced similar resistance and overcame it. One pilot told us, “The company finally gave in once they saw how united we had become.” That is the key. Not words. Not emails. Unity.

If you want negotiations to move forward—if you want real progress—stand strong with your fellow Teamsters. Stop giving oxygen to division. Don’t echo the talking points of a company trying to weaken our resolve. This isn’t about one group or one individual—it’s about all of us, together.

As President Theodore Roosevelt once said:

“It is not the critic who counts… The credit belongs to the man who is actually in the arena… who strives valiantly… who, if he wins, knows the triumph of high achievement; and who, if he fails, at least fails while daring greatly…”

Let’s continue to dare greatly. Let’s stay in the arena—shoulder to shoulder, proud and united.

In solidarity,

Captain Robert Skiles
Communications Committee
APA Teamsters Local 2118