This is the Article that has just been sent out as a Special DEC 2009 East Hammer

Rick Grogan Special

As Rick has decided to take a back seat from Easthammer a few of us decided it was fitting we done a tribute for all his hard work over the years so here goes. For the rare few who dont know Rick he is one of the Rostered S/S at Upminster Bridge a few more details about his background below.

Born Barking 20th June 1956 Ricks first trade Union experience was in the TGWU working for Wallis supermarkets in 1972 as shop steward at the Dagenham Heathway store (the empty building next to the station).

After this he went on to join USDAW Working for London Co-op for two years before being sacked for trade union activities and winning a out of court settlement this then lead to him being blacklisted for the next two years on the dole where he joined "Militant" and really learnt what the fight was all about. Selling the paper at Becontree was always a battle with the fascists.

Still a member of USDAW Rick managed to get a job in security in stores in the west end taking an active roll in the anti Sunday trading campaigns.

Around 1987 Rick Joined LUL where He was immediately involved with the NUR and the Station foreman's action committee. He became the rep for the East Ham group after a couple of years and then after company plan sat on the first stations functional committee, with John Leach, Tom Mahoney and Martin Sharpe. He has edited the Easthammer for 20 years.Rick also leads the fight against Racism, Discrimination and fascism and proves an example to us all in his beliefs and integrity. In Ricks own words - I am and always will be proud of my union, its representatives and its membership.

Andy Izard:
All I can say is Rick was in the branch way back in 1980 he has held all position in branch over the years has attended numerous political events always spoke his mind done the Easthammer news sheet for over 20 years save members loads of jobs stood with me on countless picket lines and is a person you would want in your corner for any fight. The NUR / RMT owe people like Rick a great lot of gratitude for his outstanding service.

Colin Hall:
I have known Rick for many years, and have always trusted his judgement, he is a font of information and is known throughout the RMT. I wish him good health and good times for the future. All the best.

Gordon Craig:
What can you say about Rick that hasn't already been said? A legend in his own lunchtime!!!!!!!!!