ULA workers walk out on strike against rocket company

DECATUR, Ala. (AP) - Workers who build and launch rockets have gone on strike in Alabama, Florida and California.

Members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers voted Sunday to reject a three-year contract offer from United Launch Alliance of Centennial, Colorado.

A strike began Monday, including about 300 who assemble rockets in Decatur, Alabama. Also involved are employees who launch rockets, including about 220 at Cape Canaveral, Florida, and 80 at Vandenberg Air Force Base, California.

Union members tell local media travel requirements and a lack of job security are major sticking points.

United Launch Alliance is a joint venture between Boeing Co. and Lockheed Martin Corp. The company says its offer was in the best interest of owners and employees. The company says operations will continue during the strike.