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    Analysis

    May 21, 2026

    Final Thoughts: Paying tribute

    Written by Ethan Bernard

    This long weekend, we pay tribute to the sacrifices of the men and women of the US armed forces. As our nation nears its 250th birthday, we look back and remember. And steel is definitely a part of that continuing story.

    Honoring the fallen, taking pride in steel

    “On Memorial Day we honor those who gave their lives in defense of our country, and that defense would not have been possible without the products made by the American steel industry and its workers,” Kevin Dempsey, president and CEO of the American Iron and Steel Institute (AISI), told SMU. 

    “American steel is the foundation of US national security — from armored vehicles, to protective vests, to warships, military aircraft, submarines, carriers and the electrical grid and other critical infrastructure, steel is the material that keeps our soldiers and all Americans safe,” he added.

    Dempsey pointed out that the American steel industry serves as “the backbone for the entire US defense industrial base upon which our US national and economic security is built.”

    Similarly, Philip K. Bell, president and CEO of the Steel Manufacturers Association (SMA), reflected on the meaning of Memorial Day while signaling the role steel plays in our country.

    “As we honor those who have served and sacrificed, we are reminded that a strong nation depends not only on the courage of its people but also on the foundations we forge at home,” Bell told SMU. “A vibrant domestic steel industry ensures that America’s future remains built on strength, security, and self-reliance.”

    He added: “The domestic steel industry stands as a quiet cornerstone of American strength — an enduring symbol of resilience, ingenuity, and national purpose.”

    In this issue, in fact, the two steel groups voiced their support for a new infrastructure bill, the BUILD America 250 Act. Infrastructure spending can raise demand for steel, with knock-on effects all along the value chain.

    USS impact on Alabama

    Yes, it’s not just in the defense industry; steel is part of the nation’s economic vitality itself. A recent report from Pittsburgh-based U.S. Steel highlights this.

    USS released the findings of its first economic impact study of its operations in Alabama on May 20.

    It showed the company generated $536.2 million in total economic impact in Alabama in fiscal year 2024. Additionally, the company supported 1,963 jobs statewide and contributed $12.4 million in state and local tax revenue. The analysis was conducted by Parker Strategy Group.

    “Alabama represents the best of what American manufacturing can be: strong communities, skilled people, and a deep industrial heritage,” David B. Burritt, president and CEO of U.S. Steel, said in a statement.

    The company said it’s positioned for continued growth through its partnership with Japan’s Nippon Steel. In November of last year, USS announced a major capital investment of $75 million to install a new premium thread line at its Fairfield Tubular Operations in Alabama. This is part of a larger investment plan with Nippon.

    We’re proud to have USS as a sponsor of this year’s Steel Summit in Atlanta in August.

    SMU says thanks

    That’s just a microcosm of what’s happening all across the country. So, again, we say thank you for the shared sacrifices of the men and women of the US armed forces. And we’re grateful to work in an industry so fundamental to the nation’s defense and economy.

    From everyone at SMU, we wish you and your families a long and restful holiday weekend. Be careful when you mind your steel grills for family BBQs. They may not be crucial for the nation’s defense, but they definitely can boost family harmony – depending on who makes the burgers. In any case, in these uncertain times, we’re so thankful for your continued support!

    Ethan Bernard

    Ethan Bernard is managing editor for Steel Market Update. He previously worked for American Metal Market as a copy editor in the New York office for two years, starting in 2008. Later, he copy edited AMM’s monthly magazine on a freelance basis from 2015 until 2017. With experience in financial copywriting and textbook publishing, he holds a BA in Comparative Literature from UC Berkeley, and an MFA in Creative Writing from New York University. He can be reached at ethan@steelmarketupdate.com or 724-759-7871.

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