CHARLOTTE, N.C., March 31, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Duke Energy today honors its heroes during National Lineman Appreciation Day.
Electric utilities, customers, friends and families across the country are also encouraged to recognize the men and women who maintain and restore the power delivery system so vital to people, businesses and industry.
"Our line workers embody the heart and soul of Duke Energy," said Keith Trent, executive vice president and chief operations officer for Duke Energy's regulated utility operations. "They daily perform challenging, highly skilled work to provide the energy that drives America.
"Their profession requires passion, dedication and ongoing training," Trent added. "I consider it a privilege to be on the same team with them."
U.S. Rep. Mick Mulvaney (R-S.C.) has submitted in the House a resolution "Recognizing linemen, the profession of linemen, the contributions of these brave men and women who protect public safety, and expressing support for the designation of March 31, 2014, as National Lineman Appreciation Day."
"I was proud to offer a resolution recognizing South Carolina's and the nation's utility linemen for their hard work and dedication during multiple bouts of severe winter weather this year," Mulvaney said. "It isn't nearly as much praise as these folks deserve, but I think it's important that we thank these men and women for everything they have done to keep our lights on.
"We take that for granted, but the truth is it takes a lot of work to make that happen, especially during rough weather. I'm honored to have been able to help thank them by designating March 31, 2014, as National Lineman Appreciation Day."
Duke Energy employs more than 5,000 line workers to construct, operate and maintain equipment to deliver electricity to more than 7 million customers across its service territories.They work every day in potentially hazardous conditions, and often travel in response to ice storms, hurricanes and other severe-weather events.
"Today and every day it is important to recognize the craft and skill of our line workers," added Trent. "If you know a line worker, or see one today – thank them."
To participate in honoring line workers across the country, use the hashtag #thankalineman. For more information about Duke Energy's line workers, follow @DukeEnergy and www.facebook.com/DukeEnergy.
Headquartered in Charlotte, N.C., Duke Energy is a Fortune 250 company traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol DUK. More information about the company is available at: www.duke-energy.com.
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SOURCE Duke Energy