The ISU formed in 1951 and now, 56 years later, after increased competition from foreign steel companies on the U.S. steel industry, the once massive union was forced to dissolve.

The union is now known as USW Local 2911.

U.S. Sen. Jay Rockefeller, D-W.Va., called from Washington D.C., and said he would continue to fight for the steel industry.

For now Mark Glyptis, former ISU president, will serve as president of Weirton's Local 2911.