ATU Heroes Going Beyond the Call of Duty
When disaster strikes, it’s often transit workers who are closest to the heart of a community who become its greatest lifelines.
Asheville, North Carolina
Steve Sprague, a dedicated shop steward with Local 128 working for Asheville Rides Transit (ART), is one such hero. A father, husband, and mechanic, Brother Sprague has spent the last six years working on the frontlines of public transit in Asheville, but it was his unwavering commitment to his neighbors and community that truly came to the forefront when Hurricane Helene devastated Western North Carolina.
“After Helene hit, I jumped in the car to check in on my neighbors up and down the mountain,” said Sprague. But what should have been a straightforward trip quickly became a battle against nature. Sprague found himself trapped between two fallen trees and an active mudslide. Undeterred, he joined forces with his neighbors to clear the roads. They managed to break free of the immediate danger zone and went on to help neighbors.
“Once I checked in on neighbors, I made it out to Asheville and stayed at my job site overnight with ART to maintain the ability to drive an evacuation bus,” Sprague recalled. He also reached out to his brothers and sisters in the ATU, checking in on them to ensure they were safe. One, struggling with a lack of food, was welcomed into Sprague’s home, where his family shared a meal.
By the following week, Sprague was teaming up with IBEW Local 238, coordinating the delivery of essential supplies to neighborhoods, elder care facilities, and apartment complexes that were hit hardest by the storm. “Communities have come together in so many ways to look after one another,” said Sprague. “This is why I chose to live where I do.”
Toronto, Ontario
A Local 113-Toronto, ON, Toronto Transit Commission (TTC) bus operator displayed extraordinary courage and selflessness after a serious crash involving his bus.
A speeding car slammed into the side of a TTC bus, causing a violent impact that sent the bus careening into another TTC bus heading in the opposite direction.
As the crash unfolded, the driver of the car was left unconscious and trapped in the burning wreckage of his vehicle. In a heroic and life-risking move, one of our dedicated Local 113 bus operators immediately sprang into action, pulling the driver from the flames before emergency responders could arrive on the scene.
Local President/Business Agent Marvin Alfred praised our heroic member’s quick thinking and bravery. “By rescuing the motorist, the operator acted selflessly and went beyond his duties to ensure the safety of others. He is proud to be able to help someone in danger,” said Alfred.
We want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the bravery of all transit workers who go above and beyond every day to ensure the safety and well-being of the public. These selfless acts of heroism are shining examples of the dedication and commitment of our members to the safety of their fellow citizens, even in the face of great personal danger.