Workplace Rights
Protecting employees’ rights under collective bargaining agreements and federal labor law.
Fair Pay and Recognition
Advocating for equitable compensation, transparent performance systems, and meaningful recognition of employee contributions.
Job Security
Standing against unjust reductions, improper personnel actions, and decisions that threaten the federal workforce.
What
We Fight
For
Fair Working Conditions
Negotiating workplace policies involving schedules, telework, promotions, performance appraisals, safety, and employee development.
Representation and Due Process
Supporting bargaining-unit employees during grievances, investigations, disciplinary actions, and disputes with management.
The Redstone Mission
Protecting the civilian workforce whose technical knowledge and public service help Redstone Arsenal fulfill its national-security mission.
Abner Merriweather
PRESIDENT, AFGE LOCAL 1858
A veteran who now fights for The Union
Abner Merriweather is a retired electrical engineer who completed 42 years of federal service at Redstone Arsenal while continuing to lead AFGE Local 1858. His Local 1858 service can be traced publicly to 2006, when he served as Fair Practices Coordinator. Federal filings identify him as president from at least 2013 through 2025.
During his leadership, Local 1858 has negotiated collective bargaining agreements, represented employees transitioning into new personnel systems, and spoken publicly for workers affected by government shutdowns and workforce reductions.
His priorities include fair treatment, job security, employee representation, transparent personnel practices, and preserving the institutional knowledge essential to Redstone Arsenal.
“Our strength comes from informed employees, active members, and a union prepared to stand up when workers need a voice.”
Abner Merriweather, President, AFGE Local 1858
Leadership Timeline
Local 1858 Is Chartered
1958
Thirty federal employees established the Local on October 1, 1958. The organization began with two bargaining units and initially met in an employee’s garage.
A Collective Bargaining Milestone
2013
President Merriweather and the U.S. Army Engineering and Support Center signed the Huntsville Center’s first collective bargaining agreement.
A Redstone First
2016
Local 1858 negotiated the first successful AcqDemo agreement at Redstone Arsenal for eligible Space and Missile Defense Command employees.
Defending Workers During Uncertainty
2026
President Merriweather publicly advocated for furloughed Redstone employees during the federal shutdown. Local 1858 reported representing approximately 10,000 workers across 28 commands and program offices.
YOUR UNION PROTECTS THE JOB. WE HELP YOU UNDERSTAND THE BENEFITS
AFGE Local 1858 advocates for VA employees in the workplace. PWR Retirement Group complements that work by providing education about federal benefits, income protection, and retirement preparation. Together, these resources help members become more informed about both their workplace rights and financial futures.
Protects your job & rights
Bargaining, grievances, safety, and representation the union work that keeps you protected on campus.
Become A Member of AFGE Local 1858Helps you understand your benefits
Plain-language education on the federal benefits and retirement tools you already have — so you can make your own informed decisions.
Book Your Free ConsultationFINANCIAL TOOLS EXCLUSIVELY FOR UNION MEMBERS
Become a Union Member to unlock these tools and start planning with more confidence.
TSP Distribution Options
Learn how to manage your TSP withdrawals wisely after retirement.
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Federal Life Insurance
Make confident decisions about your federal life insurance benefits.
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Federal Disability Retirement
Protect your income and future with a clearer understanding of disability benefits.
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Retirement Calculators
Calculate your retirement outlook and take smarter steps toward your goals.
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Office Of Personal Management
Use your money more efficiently while planning for future financial security.
Explore →Educational Events
Build confidence through educational sessions focused on your retirement and financial goals.
Educational Workshop On Federal Retirement Benefits
PWR Retirement Group, in partnership with AFGE Local 1858 and President Abner Merriweather, invites union members and other eligible federal employees to a free educational workshop. AFGE Local 1858 members can participate in educational programs covering: 1. Understanding FERS and CSRS 2. TSP fundamentals and withdrawal choices 3. FEGLI coverage in retirement 4. Survivor benefit elections 5. Social Security coordination 6. Preparing for retirement
THE PWR APP, BUILT FOR
FEDERAL EMPLOYEES
Everything from calculators to workshop sign-up in one place — with MIKE, an in-app assistant that helps you find your way around your own benefits.
Retirement Calculators
Know your numbers
Easy Workshop Enrollments
Save your seat in seconds
Meet MIKE
Your 24/7 Personal Agent
TSP & FERS Tools
Understand your accounts
Download The PWR App Now
STAND WITH YOUR LOCAL. UNDERSTAND YOUR BENEFITS.
Connect with your Local today and start planning your future with confidence.