WASHINGTON - The Governing Board of Presidents of the AFL-CIO Building Trades Department expressed support for the U.S. troops serving in the Persian Gulf during the group's annual legislative conference April 7-9.

Building Trades President Edward Sullivan announced the resolution of support and appreciation, noting that thousands of men and women from the building trades are serving in the military on American soil and in Iran and Afghanistan.

A moment of silence was observed for two union tradesman who have lost their lives in combat: Marine Lance Corporal Eric Orlowski of Buffalo and Marine Sgt. Bradley Korthaus of Davenport, Iowa.

"We are heartbroken for the families of our fallen brothers, we extend our heartfelt sorrow for their great loss and deepest appreciation for the sacrifice made by their loved ones," Sullivan said. "We are especially proud of the thousands of building trades members who answered the call to duty and are now serving in this war. We send them our prayers and hopes for their safe and speedy return home."