About UGSOA International Union

The United Government Security Officers of America (UGSOA) International Union was founded in 1992 by James Vissar, a Security Officer at the U.S. Nuclear Weapons Production Facility known as Rocky Flats. Vissar, who served as the Local 1 President, grew increasingly frustrated with the lack of quality representation from the international union he was affiliated with. After finding no suitable alternatives, he decided to form a new International union.

He identified two core problems: first, the representatives assigned to his local had no real experience in the security field. Second, the international union exercised too much control over local operations. In response, Vissar established UGSOA with fewer than 100 members, operating out of his home with a focus on member representation and local autonomy.  In 2016, UGSOA moved into its new headquarters in East Wareham, Massachusetts. This move was made to support future growth and ensure financial stewardship, allowing us to focus resources directly on serving our members.  If you're in the East Wareham area, feel free to stop by our headquarters. We are proud of what we stand for and what we’ve accomplished.

Today, UGSOA represents over 12,000 members nationwide. We operate under Section 9(b)(3) of the National Labor Relations Act, which applies specifically to security officers. Our executive board and field representatives all started their careers working in the security industry, which gives us a practical understanding of the challenges officers face on the job.

Our Record of Results

Over the years, UGSOA has secured millions of dollars in settlements, back pay, and awards on behalf of our members. We have consistently fought for fair treatment, stronger contracts, and accountability from employers. Our efforts have led to the reinstatement of countless officers who were wrongfully terminated or unfairly disciplined.

In just the last five years alone, UGSOA has recovered over $3 million for our members through grievances and arbitration decisions. More than 30 officers have been reinstated with full seniority, benefits, and back pay. This year alone (2025), we’ve already recovered over $650,000—proving we don’t just talk about results, we deliver them.

Why UGSOA Is Different

• We are a 9(b)(3) union focused solely on security officers

• All of our representatives have firsthand experience in the security field

• Local unions retain control over their own affairs

• Our track record demonstrates consistent, measurable results

UGSOA-Sponsored Benefits

We offer a national benefit program that includes multiple tiers of health coverage through the Cigna network, along with dental, vision, life insurance, short and long-term disability, 401K, and other optional benefits. These benefits are portable, helping members maintain consistency during employer or contract transitions.

If you're in the East Wareham area, feel free to stop by our headquarters. We are proud of what we stand for and what we’ve accomplished.