Tag: Body Protection

DETROIT (AP) — Union officials say ballistic vests purchased for Detroit firefighters and emergency technicians aren’t right for the job because they don’t protect against stabbings.

The Detroit Fire Fighters Association has filed two grievances with the Michigan Employment Relations Commission, The Detroit News (http://detne.ws/2tlIGvn ) reported. The union argues that Detroit Fire Commissioner Eric Jones circumvented the workers’ contract by purchasing the vests without discussing it with the union or a committee of department and union officials.

Jones said he bought the right vests. He said vests that protect against stabbings are cumbersome, and that bulletproof vests provide defense from most attacks with sharp objects. Read more

WATERLOO — An Iowa body armor manufacturer with local ties has been invited to the White House to represent the state in a “Made in America” event hosted by President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence.

RMA Armament, co-owned by former Dysart officer and U.S. Marine Corps veteran Blake Waldrop and Burke “Skeet” Miehe of American Pattern & CNC Works in Waterloo-Cedar Falls, is to be featured at the White House event Monday, along with other firms from around the country, the duo said.

“Very few companies have been invited, so I’m humbled and excited,” Waldrop said. He and other manufacturers will set up a display on the south lawn of the White House. He received the invitation from White House staff Thursday morning. Read more