The National Mine Rescue Association (NMRA) is celebrating 100 years of mine rescue support in 2024. The NMRA was organized at a meeting in Leisenring, Pennsylvania, on September 6, 1924. Charter members included George S. McCaa, who was well known for the McCaa breathing apparatus used in many mine rescue operations in the 20th century.
The association is planning some special recognitions in 2024 for this milestone. One will be a challenge coin which will be given to the teams at the National Mine Rescue competition in Lexington, Kentucky., during August. The NMRA will hold a banquet with guest speakers on November 23, 2024, at the Hollywood Casino in Meadowlands, Pennsylvania. The association is looking for sponsorships to support the anniversary activities.
“We’re hoping for a large turnout for the banquet in November,” said Wes Kenneweg, president, NMRA. “We would really like to see the mine rescue teams attend. Please pass this information on to others in the mine rescue community and persons involved in mine safety.”
For more information regarding the NMRA and its 100-year anniversary, Coal Age readers can contact Kenneweg at Kenneweg.w@gmail.com.
