For generations America’s miners have bravely: Worked deep beneath the earth, in an inhospitable world, often for shockingly low pay… Encountered deadly dangers, as even today stark realities include killer floods, fires, gas leaks, lung disease exposure, explosions and cave-ins… Endured backbreaking toil, often using only axes and shovels, to obtain the coal that fueled America’s industrial revolution and helped us achieve superpower status… Become pioneers in the labor movement that helped all U.S. workers.

Learn more about the myriad reasons our nation is long overdue to establish a National Miner’s Day, when you interview bestselling author Homer Hickam. He started his life and career in the mining communities of West Virginia, and:

• Was asked to speak, and gave a moving tribute, at the memorial service for the victims of the SAGO mine disaster.

• Says it’s a national tragedy that the trapped miners in Utah were left underground as rescue and recovery efforts were canceled thoughtlessly.

• Is working on establishing a scholarship for miners’ children and those of mine rescue team members. A portion of sales from his latest novel RED HELMET will support that fund.

• Will discuss the mining life, including how novice miners are given a “red helmet,” which makes them easier to spot and rescue in a mining disaster.

CREDENTIALS: Homer Hickam of “Rocket Boys” fame has appeared on David Letterman, CNN, Fox, Montel, and dozens more shows nationwide.

AVAILABILITY: Alabama, nationwide by arrangement and via telephone
CONTACT: Burke Allen, (703) 589-8960 (DC); burke@allenmediastrategies.com; www.homerhickam.com; www.minersday.org