President of the United Mine Workers of America(UMWA) John L. Lewis, addressing the Congress of Industrial Organizations about the accident in the Centralia coal mines, Illinois. Mr. Lewis presents to the congress the history of all major accidents that occurred in the U.S. He counts the men and material losses incurred to the mining community. He terms such disasters a national shame.
President of the United Mine Workers of America(UMWA) John L. Lewis, addresses the Congress of Industrial Organization. He talks about the accident that occurred in the Centralia coal mines of Illinois. He brings into focus the flaws of the working system. He demands protection measures for the workers and enforcement of safety laws in mines. He replies to questions from the press. Photographs are taken.
President of the United Mine Workers of America(UMWA) John L. Lewis, addresses the Congress of Industrial Organizations. He describes the aftermath of various mining accidents including Centralia Illinois. He discusses the suffering of the mineworkers who face such accidents. He also talks about the physical injuries to the workers. Members of the Congress including Mr. Phil Murray, the vice-president listen to the words of Mr. Lewis.
A United States Air Force C-47 aircraft (tail number 43-48765) is seen parked on a grass airfield, with its rear door open and entry ladder down. Camera zooms in on so-called jet-assisted takeoff (JATO) cylinders fastened underneath the aircraft. Closeup of the aircraft landing gear and tires. Closer view of the JATO cylinders, that appear to be twin 12AS-250 Junior JATO cylinders made by Aerojet Corporation.. Two Air Force officers approach and board the aircraft, which is being guarded by an armed Staff Sergeant. Camera pans across to the aircraft as the crew starts number 2 engine, as a fire guard with extinguisher stands by. A collection of military and other persons stands by vehicles in the background. The fire guard walks to number 1 engine which the crew starts. With both engines running smoothly, the pilot waves to the fire guard from his open cockpit window. Next, the aircraft is seen taxiing on the otherwise empty airfield. It turns near a large tree and commences a takeoff roll. The Jato bottles fire and the aircraft is launched into the air after a very short ground run, with smoke spurting from the JATO rocket cylinders. Another view of the Jato takeoff is seen as well.
Ohio Senator Robert Taft speaks about the Labor-Management Relations Act, also known as the Taft-Hartley Act. He talks about justice and equality in labor management relations. Further he speaks about provisions of the act regarding employer's relation with Labor Union Leaders and protection of workers to take part in strikes.
Labor Leader Walter Reuther, at microphone, denounces the Taft-Harley Act. He speaks about industrial stability in the country and calls Congress to appropriate money to improve economic conditions of people and workers in the country. Further he talks about economic security and social justice for workers and their family and says that government should work to cut down cost of living.