General Motors recently celebrated 100 years in business. During that time, it has contributed to the success of communities throughout the United States. It paid good wages and benefits which brought about the middle class and health care for millions. It contributed to the success of our nation in war time and peace. It provided jobs, education and dignity for its employees.

Until the U.S. economy failed, GM was successful. The unions didn’t bring down GM. In fact, if all the workers were paid nothing, GM would still be in bankruptcy. Thanks to the greed of bankers, mortgage loan companies and some unscrupulous investors, the U.S. economy failed. Without credit and consumer confidence, most car companies, including Toyota, face multibillion dollar losses.

GM is constantly ridiculed because it pays fair wages and benefits. Is Wal-Mart a better company because it denies its workers decent pay and benefits? Which company is more responsible to America? General Motors topped Fortune magazine’s list of successful companies more than any other company in history.

Union workers are the most productive workers in the country. We take pride in the quality of our work and we want all Americans to improve the quality of their lives.

Eldon Renaud

Bowling Green

Editor’s note: Renaud is president of U.A.W. Local 2164, which represents workers at the General Motors Bowling Green Assembly Plant.