PIKEVILLE, ky. (WYMT) - Hundreds of people lined two major highways in Pike County to show their support for coal.

Chanting “C C C coal miners” these little ones cheer on their dad and the industry that supports him.

“I've got three girls, Stormy, Jasmine and Summer, and this is my wife over here Julie, and I mean it's a way of life for us, said coal miner David Marcum.

The Marcum family was just one of the hundreds that showed their support for the coal industry at the Hands Across Pike County Coal Rally.

Most said they hope the stand they took will make a difference in the future for every coal miner and their families.

“It’s gotten to the point that these people need this. These people know that there are people standing up for them,” said United for Coal founder Allen Gibson.

Supporters stood alongside of US 23 and Hwy 119 to defend the coal industry, and make a statement on a national scale.

“We will be one vote we will be one voice all across the United States we've got people joining in with us,” said Gibson.

So that families like the Marcums can survive.

“It supports me and my family. I mean, it means everything to us,”
said Marcum.

Officials say that a total of twelve states were involved in the rally.