Hundreds of workers from the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) Local 778 have been striking at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Missouri, since April 4, 2023. The workers are demanding a fair contract that includes higher wages, better working conditions, and limits on mandatory overtime. Currently, entry-level wages are between $20.60 and $21.75 per hour, which union leaders argue is insufficient given the company's growing profits. IAM leaders have criticized Olin Winchester for prioritizing stock buy-backs worth $1.35 billion and maintaining a CEO salary of nearly $10 million over fair compensation for workers. Despite two meetings between union negotiators and Olin Winchester since the strike began, the company has not agreed to further discussions. Union representatives emphasize the importance of the work done at the plant, which is the largest producer of small arms ammunition for the U.S. military and NATO allies, underscoring the need for fair treatment of the workforce.