•SPECIAL EDITION • [ tablecontents of ] volume four • issue six features 4 President’s Report Skyword Editorial Policy • 5 From the Editor Submissions to Skyword are due by the first day of each month 6 Remember Me for publication on the following month 7 Barbara Arestegui, BOS The APFA reserves the right to Cover: Roses from the edit any submissions that are received for the purpose of 8 Jeffrey Collman, BOS Boston and New York publication in Skyword Submissions will not be considered 9 Michele Heidenberger, DCA Memorial Services are if they are too long! libelous! defamatory! not factual! 10 Ken and Jennifer Lewis, DCA thrown into the remains in bad taste or are at Ground Zero. contractually incorrect Letters to the Editor may not be 12 Sara Low, BOS considered if the length of the APFA Headquarters submission exceeds $%% words All 13 Karen Martin, BOS 1004 West Euless Boulevard letters must include your name! Euless, Texas 76040 signature! address! base! employee 14 Renee May, DCA number and telephone number Toll-Free (800) 395-APFA Use the Communique Card in the or tear)out section or submit 15 Kathy Nicosia, BOS Local Metro (817) 540-0108 your letter to APFA Fax (817) 540-2077 Communications Department 16 Betty Ong, BOS Copyright +%%$ by the APFA All Chicago Office rights reserved No part of this 17 Jean Roger, BOS 8410 Bryn Mawr Ave., publication may be reproduced in Suite 400 any form without written 18 Dianne Snyder, BOS Chicago, Illinois 60631 permission of the APFA (773) 380-1202 The views expressed in Skyword do not necessarily represent those 19 Madeline Sweeney, BOS Los Angeles Office of the APFA APFA does not 8639 Lincoln Blvd., endorse any medical procedure! 20 Charles Burlingame, DCA medical practice! product or Suite 200 service that may be mentioned or 21 John Ogonowski, BOS Los Angeles, California 90045 advertised in Skyword (310) 649-2818 Skyword is published ten times a year by APFA! $%%- West Euless 22 Thomas McGuinness, BOS Dallas/Ft. Worth Office Bvd! Euless! Texas %-% Postage 222 W. Las Colinas Blvd., paid at Dallas! Texas 23 David Charlebois, DCA Suite 1650 Irving, Texas 75039 John Ward President 24 Memorial for New York (972) 444-2500 Jeff Bott Vice President 25 Memorial for Los Angeles

Internet Address Linda Lanning Secretary 26 The Blue Platoons www.apfa.org E-Mail Address Juan Johnson Treasurer 29 American, United Flight Attendant Michelle Brawley [email protected] 30 The APFA 11/77 Memorial Fund carries a rose for Karen Martin at the Leslie Mayo Editor 32 Ground Zero Boston Memorial Service Skylar Turner Graphic Designer HotLine Information Tape 800.399.APFA 36 The Defining Moment photo courtesy of Nancy Lane, The Boston Herald Tape Updated Weekly 37 PhoneWatch 38 In Memory, With Love  President’s Report callers not only with up-to-date has been very busy since period immediately following operational information but September 11. In addition to September 11, APFA's National with moral support, as well. constantly speaking with the Hotel Coordinator Patty Bias ur world changed Hundreds of volunteers press and giving interviews, proved to be up to the challenge. manned the phones seven days National Communications OOon September 11. a week answering thousands of Coordinator Leslie Mayo still As always, our incredible APFA calls from our members until managed to keep the member- office staff kept things running I know the days and all Flight Attendants had ship updated on changing smoothly for us at APFA returned to their bases. events through the APFA Headquarters. There was no task weeks following the HotLine and the web site. too large for them to handle. I horrific events of that The APFA Safety Department Incidentally, as a result of know I speak for all of our has been actively working with APFA's commitment to provide Representatives and volunteers day have been management, other unions, and you with timely and accurate when I say how much we appreci- by John Ward, APFA President various government agencies to information, the APFA HotLine ated their professionalism and extremely trying on us improve safety and security is now updated twice weekly, support for APFA and its Flight Attendants at such a difficult time. all. Just as a family procedures, both onboard the on Tuesday and Friday evenings. aircraft and at airports nation- I highly recommend that you pulls together during wide. APFA's Washington lob- get in the habit of calling the And finally, I would be remiss if I byist has also been instrumen- HotLine regularly. did not acknowledge the tireless times of crisis, so too tal in this effort, meeting with dedication of my fellow National Congressional leaders and their The APFA Scheduling and Officers and of all the APFA Base has the APFA and staffs every week since Contract Departments' phones Chairs and Vice Chairs – most especially those representing its members. September 11 helping to ensure have been ringing off the hook that effective airline security since September 11. September BOS/BOS-I and DCA/DCA-I. I Almost immediately following legislation is passed. schedules were affected by mas- feel extremely fortunate to be the shocking news that sive cancellations and our associated with such an outstand- American flights 11 and 77 had The APFA Health Department Scheduling Reps have been ing group of professionals. been hijacked and were involved has provided extensive support there to assist. The announce- in the terrorist attacks at the to the membership following ment of furloughs, overage Life, unfortunately, won't ever be World Trade Center and the the traumatic events of leaves and partnership flying the same as it was before Pentagon, APFA Representatives September 11. To cite just one generated many, many questions September 11. These events have and volunteers sprang into example, the Health which were efficiently answered reinforced what we have always action to assist those in our Department arranged to have by our dedicated Contract known to be the case – that we ranks affected by the tragedies trained counselors from the Department. need each other, and that we are and the events that followed. American Red Cross on hand much more able to deal with the at APFA Headquarters to assist The efforts of the APFA Hotel challenges we face when we face By early afternoon on September in handling calls from Department have not gone them together. 11, PhoneWatch, APFA's commu- Flight Attendants who were unnoticed. When confronted nications command center, was understandably upset and fear- with the Herculean task of In Unity, up and running. With flights ful following the tragedies. attempting to make certain that diverted and crews stranded lit- all Flight Attendants had trans- John erally all over the world, the As you can imagine, the APFA portation and hotel rooms in PhoneWatch volunteers provided Communications Department which to stay during the time

We call that person who has lost his father, an orphan; and a widower that man who has lost his wife. But that man who has known the immense unhappiness of losing a friend, by From the what name do we call him? Here every language is silent and holds its peace in helplessness.

Editor -Joseph Roux by Leslie Mayo Skyword Editor, APFA Communications Coordinator

wo months ago, who could Each of us must grieve in our their money to the families of date information every time I to be overwhelmed with things have anticipated that we own way, whether we do it pub- those we lost, and food and called. And thanks also goes to that seemed so important at the TTwould be in the place we are licly, behind closed doors, with drink for our volunteers and rep- Skylar Turner who has put his time. But that luxury is gone. today – mourning the loss of sev- loved ones, or in silence. There resentatives at APFA who worked heart and soul into this magazine enteen of our friends, living in a is no right or wrong way to anywhere from eight to sixteen despite his inability to get the And through it all I’ve realized country at war, and some of us grieve. I hope that, in some small hour shifts. Some of them lost faces of our lost colleagues out of something. I’ve realized that I afraid to fly? way, this issue of Skyword will friends in this tragedy, yet they his mind night or day while take an awful lot for granted. bring some comfort to you, as it managed to remain strong and designing this issue of Skyword. The intention of this issue of has for me while producing it. help other Flight Attendants sys- Skyword is to honor the tem wide who weren’t as fortu- It used to be so easy to get crewmembers whose lives were It’s amazing to watch those nate to have the kind of support bogged down with petty details – lost on September 11, 2001. This around you, some of whom you that is abundant at APFA has not been an easy publication thought you knew so well, Headquarters. I would especially Several New York and Boston Flight Attendants went to Ground Zero to bring together, neither techni- become even stronger in the face like to acknowledge Bill White thanks to the assistance of Connecticut Congressman Christopher Shays. cally nor emotionally. To assist of this tragedy. Flight Attendants for his assistance, above and This banner was designed by APFA’s Graphic Designer, Skylar Turner, me in honoring our fellow came from all over the country to beyond the call of duty, in pub- and placed at Ground Zero overlooking the thousands of flowers, cards, crewmembers, I included in sever- donate their time to PhoneWatch, lishing the web site with up-to- pictures and teddy bears left by families of the World Trade Center vic- al HotLines, e-mails and web site tims. It hangs there still today. messages, a request to you. I asked for your stories.

Several of you took time out of your very busy schedules to send me your favorite memories, lay- over stories and photographs. I thank you for stepping forward, during what was, and is, a difficult time – to remember your friends, and in some cases, your family. The following pages contain your memories.

The following poem When uniforms walk ahead of bags drawn, When you cast your eyes upon the ocean Just who am I, was read at the And loved ones are left behind because or see great buildings who are we that ask to be remembered? Seattle Memorial there is a job to be done. crumble and fall, We’re the souls who too were cast upon the sea. Service in honor of Remember me. When you think of training tense We’re the ones who smiled a greeting in the our fellow that was meant to protect dawn’s early morn. crewmembers we and save lives, We’re the ones who tucked you in or got you there safely. lost on September 11, 2001. When the night skies fall before you, Remember this time, We’re the ones who listened and all the stars have grown, we weren’t trained to prevent this fall. to stories old and new when no one else would. When the silver birds soar and dance away We’re the ones whose lives were lost to places unknown. because we stood between someone’s mission and a door. Remember me. We’re the forgotten ones When you’re sitting alone on your by our nation that grieved over the other souls jump seat small and lost in a mad man’s holy war. watching the clouds race by, We’re the pilots who made the silver birds fly. When you think of someone’s child, When the dark of night seems We’re the flight attendants who made your journey seem brother or sister, significant other, endless and you ask why? like a sweet piece of pie. mom or dad, Please remember and forget not When you feel afraid because of a world – all of us. seemingly gone mad. Remember not only me, We once had a job that seemed so glamorous Remember me. but also all of us who share this because we could fly away. humble path in life, We too had a life, love and family, but that’s all been though we sometimes walk it alone, taken away. only to realize how fragile and Please remember me, remember us. precious each life is. Remember me, remember us. The others that died on that fateful day have been eulogized and memorialized, but our nation, President and home seem to have I pray that these once feet of clay forgotten about us. will again have wings to fly, None seem to remember that we were murdered first. To reach the stars and soar with freedom And now the job that seemed so glamorous and and touch the face of God on high. one that we loved so dearly seems cursed. I pray that this mortal veil of fear We can’t let the bad guys win. that grips our hearts nationwide We can’t withdraw into pain and sorrow. will soon be lifted, We must go forward and put this aside, to fly again. And these crumbled hopes Let forgiveness fill your hearts instead of anger or sorrow, that are now etched with tears will help us For now we are one with the One. once again rise above earthly cares. Now when you see uniforms walk ahead of bags drawn, Remember us. And the silver birds soar in freedom once again to dance away into the dawn, Let God’s Holy light fill your hearts as you remember me, and all of us who once wore wings proudly upon our chests, For now we wear new wings and soar with the angels on high. Barbara E. Manrow - Northwest Airlines Flight Attendant Remember, and forget not – all of us who fly. Barbara “Bobbi” Arestegui

October  – September

obbi picked up three stray nick name Bobbi. "She knew her Rockwell Museum in Stockridge, and abused cats: Olive, job so well. She could do two or Massachusetts. We spent the BBBruiser and Pumpkin. She'd three people's work, plus hers, whole day enjoying the beautiful loved animals since she was a kid and it would be done perfectly." colors of fall as well as the in Hawthorne, a suburb of Los Colleagues of Bobbi repeated that museum and the tea houses and Angeles. "She was a gentle per- praise. They remembered her as little shops. We both enjoyed son, yet tough when she needed energetic; a huge heart in a 5- planning fun and interesting to be," said Rosie Arestegui, who foot-3-inch frame. things to do on our layovers. gave her daughter Barbara the 7 Mariella Slattery and Bobbi Mariella Slattery, an IMA Flight “We were in London the same Attendant, met Bobbi several week that Princess Diana was years ago while they were both killed and we were able to join based at JFK. “I remember her the millions of mourners at beautiful smile, her professional- Kensington Palace to pay our ism, and the way she organized respects and be a part of the her galley! She always flew gal- experience. We also spent won- ley and she was the best at it. derful times shopping in London We became great friends instantly and just enjoying dinners in as we had many stories to share. other countries.

“She always spoke of her “I will always cherish my won- boyfriend Wayne, whom she had derful memories of the times we met on a flight, and her mother shared together and she will Bobbi, left, at Flight Attendant training and sister whom she loved so always stay with me in my heart. dearly. I will never forget the time we rented a car while on a “Rest in peace my dear friend.” layover in Hartford and we decid- ed to drive to see the Norman Mariella Slattery

 Jeffrey Collman

September   – September 

worked with Jeff Collman “Jeff had spunk. Jeff was caring. But I could always count on him to Jeff, was one of my favorite as recently as July 2001 on Jeff was personable. But what I call me when he had a Chicago lay- months of flying. It is because “I“Ia San Francisco transcon remember the most about Jeff was over. The first thing I would hear of people like Jeffrey Collman from Boston. He brought choco- his determination to get the very when I picked up the phone or lis- that this job can be so great.” lates from France and lemon bars most out of this new career that tened to his messages was from Trader Joe’s. On the return he had taken on. He wanted to “CARRZ!” in this silly, funny and Carryn “Carrz” Gatsos red-eye flight, Jeff again brought travel, explore, meet new people excited voice. ORD more treats to share along with and try new things. It was great UNO and Yahtzee. I have never to see that someone else shared “He always remembered the little Donations in memory of Jeff Jeff with Jennette Lewicki had so much fun working an all- the same feelings that I did. The things about me. It was nice to can be sent to: from Class 98-06 nighter as I did that night. Jeff best part about all of this was that know that even though weeks or was an incredible Flight Attendant we flew together all month. We months would pass without my Jeffrey Collman – so personal and he remembered worked Chicago all-nighters and I speaking with him, I knew he American Red Cross everything about you. He was looked forward to every trip always kept me in his thoughts. Disaster Relief Fund wonderful with the passengers because of Jeff. We would sit in 285 Columbus Avenue and will be remembered well by the gate area before every trip “There is no doubt in my mind that Boston MA 02116 everyone who had the privilege of and ‘people watch.’ Jeff did the same thing with his flying with him.” crew that Tuesday “He was very observant, but also morning that he did Rebecca Holmstrom very mindful of those around with Michael and me. BOS him. He was always looking out I hope everyone who for Michael (our other flying part- knew Jeff would “I’d like to start off by saying that ner) and me. It was a great feel- remember that. He I have never met anyone in my ing to know that someone I knew was there to make six-year career with American who very little about would be there to you laugh, put a smile loved his job more than Jeff. We protect me if he sensed something on your face and help met three years ago when we were wasn’t right. you in times of need both new-hires in San Francisco. by calming your fears.  I’ve never felt a warmer welcome “After that month of flying we from a complete stranger. went our separate ways – eventu- “January 1999, the ally Jeff to BOS and me to ORD. month I spent with  Jeff, center in back Michele

Tommie and Michele celebrating Heidenberger New Year’s 2000 on Marco Island

July – September 

ichele was the senior “She really Michele was people into her home and into her Donations can be sent to: Flight Attendant aboard enjoyed her job totally ground- life. She enjoyed sharing the MMFlight 77 on September – probably ed. Her faith blessings and treasures of her St. Anne’s Infant and 11. Michele grew up as the because she was important world with friends and family. For Maternity Home daughter of the American Airlines loved people so to her. She had years, Michele spent hours holding Michele Heidenberger Fund Hartford Airport Manager. She much. She life figured out and caressing abandoned babies 4901 Eastern Avenue has been a part of the American came to work long ago. She and toddlers at St. Anne’s Infant Hyattsville, MD 20872 Airlines family all her life. with a smile on knew what was and Maternity Home. She also Or her face, a important and shopped with her children, on a The American Red Cross “Michele graduated from Windsor smile she she had her pri- weekly basis for a disabled resi- Silver Spring, MD High School in 1967 and attended shared with orities in order. dent of Maryland. Volunteering 2020 East West Highway the University of Hartford. everyone. Everything she to help others in need was impor- Silver Spring, MD 20910 Before joining the AA Stewardess Michele made did in her life tant to Michele. In Michele’s name Corps in 1970, she worked as a work fun. The revolved around travel agent for Sage-Allen Travel routines of the her family and “Michele will be missed by her fel- Agency. Michele met her hus- job were enjoy- what was best low crewmembers. We will miss band, Tommie, in Chicago where able. Michele for them. her easy-going manner, her caring she started her flying career. was a wonder. Michele, her dog Jameson and Tommie was the concern for all of those around They married in 1972 and eventu- As the #2 on a husband Tommie, daughter love of her life her and her ability to make each ally settled in the Washington, Super-80, she Alison and son Thomas and her con- of us feel important. We will miss D.C., area where the entire was able to stant playmate. her beautiful smile and her won- Heidenberger family lives. board a full load, direct traffic, Alison and Thomas were the derful spirit. Tommie is a Captain with US stow luggage (even if it meant center of her world – a mother’s Airways and they have two chil- unpacking suitcases to make them world. She was always so proud “I will miss my friend.” dren – Alison, 20, a junior at fit in the overhead), reseat families and protective of them. Loyola University in Baltimore, so they could sit together, set up Michele H. Smith MD and Thomas, 14, a freshman the galley and do blankets and “Michele was a great friend to DCA at Gonzaga College High School magazines. And she would do all many – she loved her friends and in Washington, D.C. of this with a smile on her face. they loved her. She welcomed Michele, left , and frequent flying partner Michele Smith here are friends in our lives as the fiber of my life. When we made it possible that he introduced mates for five years. In our first whom we treat with general would get together, we'd retell me to my wife and was best man three years together we had sev- “T“Tregard – where do they real- our adventures of sailing in regat- in my wedding. It was through eral different roommates – appar- ly stand? We just watch them tas against all odds – of even get- flying that he also met his wife ently Jennifer and I were the only come and go. My friend Ken ting in the water – much less and best friend Jennifer, also a ones who thought we made good Lewis never left; it would have winning the race. Ken and I met Flight Attendant. roommates. In the end, it was been so easy as our lives evolved, as newly hired ski instructors for just the two of us. You might but he never considered it. Breckenridge Ski School in “Theirs was a life to envy. The think that two strong-willed Colorado. Ken had just returned love and caring they demonstrated women living together in an “Ken had such a gift for life, one from Austria as a ski instructor to each other was very special. apartment might suffer a power like no one I've ever known. His and I was coming off the profes- They rarely flew together but struggle. But that wasn’t infectious enjoyment of each day sional ski circuit. I did not September 11th, Flight 77, was the Jennifer’s style. I think I can rubbed off on everyone around understand why the experienced last two-day trip before their vaca- speak for Kim and Robbin when I him. For more than twenty years instructors gave us the cold tion – and it was to be their final say that Jennifer was the perfect I considered Ken Lewis my best shoulder but Ken pulled me aside trip together. The loss of my roommate. friend. Over these past three and explained we were a threat friends has left a huge hole in so weeks I fully realized he was not to them. At that point Ken knew many hearts and lives that I cannot “There was never a dull moment only my closest friend, but every- I didn't really get it so there he even begin to describe it. I will with Jennifer. Looking back, one one else’s as well. Ken consid- was taking me under his wing never again be completely whole of my fondest memories was an where he but I will remember the joy of life evening Jennifer and I spent with held me for that Ken embraced and shared two wonderful guys in and the next cou- with those he touched. We all Georgetown, Tom Pakes and Ken Ken Jennifer Lewis ple of Lewis. We had been friends with need to live life fully and honor decades our friends. Embrace each morn- Tom for quite some time and always help- ing as a new adventure, keep close always had fun when he was Ken Lewis February   – September   ing me to “get it.” Those four those who make you whole and around. Ken was his roommate years that Ken and I taught skiing always find a place for humor. and Tom brought him along. Jennifer Lewis October   – September   together are filled with so many Jennifer took an immediate inter- ered us all his best friends – it stories that he will never be out “Ken and Jennifer, you will be so est in Ken. She spent the entire was genuine and he made us feel of my thoughts or become dis- very missed but you will never be evening OVERTLY flirting with warmly held and cared about. connected by association. Those far away in our hearts Ken was never judgmental. He instructors that had initially felt and in our minds. accepted you as you were and threatened have since become went from there. For those of some of his greatest friends. “Your friend forever,” you who knew Ken, you will always remember his infectious “In 1985 I talked to Ken about Mitch Hannon enthusiasm. It was real. We being a Flight Attendant with DCA could all learn a great life lesson American – and, in fact, Ken from him about enjoying each drove me to my first interview in Eulogy delivered at day and placing our priorities as Boston. Once I was hired, my Ken and Jennifer he did: family first, then friends first thought was that Ken needed Lewis’ Memorial and getting the most out of every to do this too – his love of travel day. Don't let life come to you – and his great attitude made him a “Very few had the go after it – delight in it. perfect fit. Ken's hire date is the privilege to know same as mine – exactly one year Jennifer as I did. We went “Throughout the years, our later. He loved flying and travel- through Flight Attendant training friendship and adventures remain ing and our continued friendship together in 1986 and were room-  “While I sat with become to not only myself, but the trip made a lengthy stop in Robbin remember- also the entire base. one of his favorite cities – Boston, ing Jennifer and Seattle, Salt Lake City or his all- wondering what “I witnessed first hand, Ken’s time favorite layover, Jackson words I could find unmatched enthusiasm for life, his Hole, Wyoming. to express the joy undying love of family and friends, she brought to my and how contagious this all was to “If you were fortunate to be with life, there were his friends here in Washington. him on one of these trips, it tears. But some- Especially so when he flashed that would literally take you days to how, as we talked, ear to ear smile and at the same recover. You would get enough laughter always time gave you that hearty pat on sleep alright, but being with him prevailed through the back, whenever he would see made you forget that you had just the tears. I believe that is Jen’s you, whether it was two months walked, hiked, biked, climbed and him. Tom noticed. I noticed. legacy to all who knew her – her ago or two years ago. then God knows what else – all Ken didn’t. Ken drove me home gift of laughter. within one day – more than you and I used that time to convince “And boy, could Ken tell a story. had done in the entire year prior! him that he should give Jennifer “My mother shared a quote with His stories were all true because The best part of it all was that you a call. Eventually, with encour- me: “Remembered joy is twice Ken did things in 49 years on this knew you were in good hands agement from Tom, Ken called sweet.” Experiencing Jennifer earth that would take the rest of us with Ken Lewis at your side. and it wasn’t long before Tom was a joy. Remembering her is ten lifetimes to do. A few exam- and I realized that this was a just as sweet. ples: he climbed the Grand Tetons “Finally, I know Ken is probably match made in heaven. Ken in one day; he was a world class on his tenth set of angel’s wings thought she was simply angelic. “I love you, Jennifer.” snow skier (he taught skiing in by now from exploring all of have two very special angels Little did he know that his angel Austria and Colorado); and he heaven, and Jennifer is still waiting for us there – Ken and had a tarnished halo – her end- Heidi Prayon would team up with best friend explaining to St. Peter about all Jennifer Lewis.” less practical jokes, her Imelda DCA and fellow AA Flight Attendant the practical jokes she would pull Marcos-like penchant for shoes Mitch Hannon to compete and on us crewmembers down here, Tom Pakes and, of course, her horrific Eulogy delivered at Ken and more often than not, win, catama- but rest assured, she has a heart DCA singing voice made her all the Jennifer Lewis’ Memorial ran races along the Atlantic Coast. of gold and will be inside the more lovable. There are enough Ken and Mitch pearly gates “Mr. Ken Lewis arrived at IAD stories alone to fill the Grand shortly. For “Eventually, Jennifer and I both on June 27, 1986 at around 9:00 Canyon 10 times over. those of us married. Even though we were p.m. for the first time as a brand left behind separated by distance, we were new American Airlines Flight “Did I also mention he was a here on not separated in spirit. Our Attendant. The Washington crew proud alumni of Hampden Sydney earth – try friendship endured the test of base has never been the same. College, and from there proceeded to get some time. Even if weeks passed to teach second grade for a num- rest now – between calls, to answer the “I should know. I was lucky ber of years in his hometown of go ahead phone and to hear her voice enough to be in his Flight Farmville, Virginia? Also, with his and slam- brought a smile to my face. Attendant Class, 86-10, and luck- good looks, Ken did television and click. Every call was sure to bring a ier still to be his roommate for print commercials on the side. Ken Because you funny story or just a good the next six years until a certain loved life – period. With all this can forget laugh. Even through the saddest gal by the name of Jennifer Gore worldly experience in him, having about eternal times in my life, Jennifer was came along. During these years, Ken on your flight crew made the rest when we always there to say or do some- I got to know just how special trip much more special. He would get there. thing to lift my spirits. and devoted a friend he would often become “layover director” if You see, we SaraLow

October    – September  

ara was a beautiful were enhanced by an outgoing left the place, the evening turned “I will always be grateful that I Contributions can be made on human being with a personality and a fabulous smile. to night and the chilly fog that was lucky enough to have had a behalf of Sara Low to: “S“Sgenuine loving soul. She was a great conversationalist San Francisco is famous for had glimpse of the beautiful person She would light up a room with (an essential quality for surviv- rolled off the bay and into the that Sara was, the way one is Independence County her smile and her presence ing an all-nighter) who genuinely city. The weather had suddenly grateful to catch a glimpse of sun- Humane Society listened and was interested in changed a lot and Sara was cold. shine on a cold and cloudy day.” P.O. BOX 3477 “I was blessed to have known what you had to say. I cannot I gave her my jacket to wear while Batesville, AR 72503 her and to have shared a portion imagine there was anyone with we walked and I heard her say Anonymous 870-698-1587 of my life with her while we whom Sara did not get along. from behind me that although it Flight Attendant were roommates in New York. was late, she didn’t feel tired at all BOS “Sara was very excited about a and wanted to go dancing. “She was a friend to all and new apartment she had just However, someone then men- Sara is from Batesville, Arkansas touched those with whom she moved into in Boston. She was tioned they were hungry and sud- and graduated from Batesville came in contact. thrilled to finally have her own denly we thought that getting High School and The University place, even though it was going some food was a good idea. We of Arkansas at Fayetteville. She'd “Sara will be greatly missed.” to be slightly more expensive decided on Thai (or perhaps we just taken an apartment on than her last apartment and she defaulted to Thai as there are not Beacon Hill in Sandy Polanco was going to have to work an too many options for a full dinner Boston. She IMA extra trip each month. She and at 12:30 in the morning). When loved to ski. her mom had spent a lot of time we arrived, she couldn’t decide She was a fine “People who didn’t know her redecorating and fixing the place what to eat and I suggested my athlete – a very well always admired Sara up. From what she told me favorite thing on the menu (which cross-country Low for her beauty. But those of about the place, it was wonderful I order religiously at this restau- runner – and us who were fortunate enough and I am sure Sara’s great taste rant) and even had her order it she loved to fly. to have spent a bit of time with only enhanced the look of it. with the same specifications I her knew her beauty was more always do. She loved her meal. I She leaves than skin deep. Sara was open- “On what was to be Sara’s last remember she sat across from me behind her par- minded, intelligent, modest, layover, we went to a martini bar at the table and wore my coat ents, Mike and refined and one of the most gen- in San Francisco for drinks and while we ate. We never did go Bobbie Low tle and patient people I ever laughs (we had a lot of both). I dancing that night and I suppose I and a sister, knew. All of these qualities remember distinctly that after we will always wish that we had. Alyson.

 Karen Ann Martin

February    – September  

aren flew for American talking about. If you looked at “Being new to the Boston base She not only introduced me to for ten years. She lived in your NS prior to a trip and saw was not easy. But in a minute, the BOS crew base, but also to KKDanvers, Massachusetts. Karen's name, you were excited. Karen Martin would change all some of what have now become She was a great athlete You may have even packed your of that. my dearest friends. She will who loved to ski, golf, play ten- suitcase differently, knowing that never be forgotten and will nis and kayak. She was especial- the flight and the layover would “My first month, Karen was the always be in my heart.” ly close to her grandmother and be full of fun and laughs. Purser, and she showed me what she enjoyed visiting her brother Karen's laugh was her trademark. layovers were all about. From Abby Bates in Los Angeles, as well. It was a hearty laugh that was Alcatraz to the Golden Gate BOS extremely infectious. On the Bridge, to casinos in Saint Several rare occasion when you didn't Martin, golfing in San Diego, Flight think her story or joke was and Harley rides in L.A; there Karen, center, with friends at Lake Tahoe Attendants funny, you knew you would still was always in March 1993 remember laugh once she did. With Karen, time for a cold Karen as I laughed until I cried many one. Karen fun, outgo- times. It was always such a made ever yone ing, a free pleasure. feel welcome. spirit and a You got the love. She “The loss of Karen, and the rest courtesy call, was animat- of our beloved crewmembers, whether you ed when she has left Boston with a heavy were a slam- spoke. She heart. My sincere hope is that clicker or was one of they know how much we love brand-new. It a kind and and miss them! They are never was always an full of life. far from our thoughts, and I feel adventure with She will be certain that they continue to fly Karen. She greatly missed by her friends and with us each and every day. was a window Karen, second from right her family. For that, we are grateful.” of opportunity in my eyes. “Anyone who ever flew with Michelle Brawley Karen Martin will know what I'm BOS

 Renee May

May    – September  

people grow closer and closer n August, David Spivock together. And in the true Renee- asked Renee to marry like fashion, she also gave him him. She said yes. She “I“I quite the challenge just in con- enjoyed giving museum tours to quering her affections. When I young visitors. Her fiancé said, first introduced them, she busted “She was blessed with a sweet my chops by commenting, ‘Well, voice. Children loved to be with if he’s so great, Ilse, why aren’t her. She was a strong woman. YOU dating him?’ As time went She emphasized that she was a by, I’ve never seen anyone love safety professional, and that’s so generously. She made him why she was there.” truly happy. At a memorial service in “Of my friend, I’d like to say that Washington, D.C., the following she was one of the most caring words were delivered: Renee, left, with Ilse Moscoso and Brenda Mackintosh and giving persons I’ve ever met. “Renee had this unique way every detail perfectly, and then But what I’ll miss the most is how “I’d like to say what an honor it Renee, right, with about her – it was her own took you along for the ride. Her she could always make me laugh is for me to say a few words for Brenda Mackintosh style. The only way to describe manner and approach to life with her quirky, unique way of my friend, Renee May. When I it was that no one else was quite were so contagious that I could living her life. Renee’s resolve think of Renee, the first thing like her. She was always so very never say no to her, and if I tried, was always to be happy, and to that pops into my head is her determined in everything she she’d just shake her head and say endure any hardship she went voice. If you’ve ever met Renee, did – from her jobs both at ‘Oh, Ilse, you’ll have so much through. And believe me, she you can’t help but notice that American and the Walters fun. Let’s do this!’ And I always went through many. sweet, child-like voice of hers. Museum in Baltimore, to her did. She truly cared about mak- Along with her voice, she had a relationships. Even to fixing her ing sure that everyone around “All of us now, as a family, beautiful smile that immediately 150-year-old townhouse in her was happy. She was genuine should follow that same goal – to gave you a good feeling. downtown Baltimore. Just plan- in every sense of the word. endure. She would be very Underneath that, for all of us ning an outing was important to proud of all of us if we did.” who knew her well, there was a her. If she didn’t like some- “When I introduced her to my very private, intelligent and thing, believe me, she’d let you good friend David, I had the Ilse Moscoso determined person with a very know. She always planned pleasure to see two very special DCA zany personality.  Kathy Nicosia

June    – September  

athy was a native of Kathy was a lovely person who a flight. And she was good at it. Donations in her honor can Indiana. She received her generously shared her time with a She solved even the hardest puz- be sent to: KKbachelor's degree from lonely new hire.” zles, coming up with answers to Bowling Green State University the most obscure and arcane of Kathy Nicosia in 1969, where she was a mem- Peggy Ogonowski clues. The vast sweep of her American Red Cross ber of Alpha Chi Omega. For BOS knowledge never ceased to amaze. Disaster Relief Fund 32 years, Kathy was a resident of P.O. BOX 37243 Winthrop, Massachusetts and a “Flying with Kathy was a pleasure. “Kathy was devoted to her hus- Washington, D.C. 20013 Flight Attendant for American Her dry sense of humor and wry band, George, and daughter, www.redcross.com Airlines. She enjoyed reading wit never failed to entertain her Marianne. To be sure that they and gardening. She leaves her fellow Flight Attendants. She was both ate properly, she’d make din- husband, George, her daughter, a tireless worker and usually ners to be frozen the night before Marianne of Winthrop and her worked the aft galley position on her trips. George and Marianne mother, Phyllis Hawk of Portage, the 767. If you were working responded in kind by always dri- Michigan. coach and Kathy was in the gal- ving her to work and picking her ley, you knew that the trip would up curbside. Her crews kidded “When I first started flying, run smoothly. She was a Flight her about her ‘princess parking.’ Kathy was about six years senior Attendant’s Flight Attendant. If to me. She seemed so knowl- the load was light, Kathy would “Kathy’s quick mind, quiet edgable. When we arrived in place a full cup of coffee in the demeanor and humorous outlook San Diego on one of my first last row of seats because she had on life were hallmarks of her per- layovers she asked me what I discovered that passengers might sonality that made her liked and was going to do with my time. I shove aside Flight Attendant jack- respected among her peers. The was clueless. Kathy said she was ets and purses to stretch out in flight crews flying BOS to LAX Kathy, right, with husband George and daughter Marianne taking me to the San Diego the last row, but would never and SFO will miss Kathy’s pres- Zoo. We had a delightful day move a full cup of coffee. Her ence, as will all her friends at together where she shared her theory was proven time and time American.” passion for travel and instructed again. me that I should really enjoy the Tom Stockton opportunities layovers offered “Kathy loved working crossword BOS for sightseeing and exploring. puzzles during slow moments on

 Betty Ong

February    – September  

ear Betty, DDI still expect to see you qui- sengers as we were boarding, etly tearing around the corner in quietly slipping into my room ops, fist full of your messages after checking into the hotel for with HIBOARD gently scraping an illicit cigarette (although your the floor. You always made time preference was menthol, for a warm hug and kiss. I Newport Lights). Shh! Don't tell remember the quick roll of your Robert – that handsome man of eyes whenever we told each other yours. What a lucky man he was of our not-so-favorite co-workers to have shared his life with one Betty with her parents at Flight of the day. of the sweetest, kindest and Attendant graduation most warmhearted people I have I shall miss the soft peal of your ever known. You have truly laughter and how you used to earned your wings. cover your mouth to try to keep in that melodious sound. I confess Your friend always, I used to say or do anything to allow myself to enjoy that. We Greg Healy Betty, back row, right shared a lot; your calls for me to BOS sign you in as you were always going to be late for sign in. You would always meld in with pas-

 Jean Roger

June   – September  

eannie was a person who My friends and all those who the back deck (with MY dog of much love and support at loved life and everything in it. met her loved her instantly – course) drinking coffee, relaxing Jeannie’s memorial service. She JJ especially my Golden Retriever. and enjoying the morning. They touched many people’s lives in her “I ran into Flight Attendant He would follow her everywhere would go shopping, eating and short time here. I am sure that all Kristine Preston in Chicago, and (I secretly think she bribed him exploring. Jeannie loved to show of you who met her will agree she she asked me if I knew of any with food, but that was just to her mom all the places she had was someone special.” apartments or rooms for rent as make me feel better about the found since her last visit and also she had a close friend who was fact that my dog liked her more discovering new places with her. Stephen Passarelli about to graduate from AA Flight than he liked me). I remember At night they would hang out in BOS Attendant training. My best checking out all the different their pajamas talking about every- friend, and former roommate John sushi places and local taverns in thing they did that day and what Jean Roger Memorial Fund had bought a house a month Roscoe Village with her. She they would do the next. It was The First Church of Christ prior, and I had been thinking of had a knack for just fitting in. awesome to see how close they 736 Longmeadow Street renting out his old room. I told We drove her to her very first were. I have never seen more love Longmeadow, MA 01106 Kristine that I knew of a place but trip in Chicago, so she wouldn’t between a mother and daughter. asked her, “Is she normal?” Jeannie have to deal with the CTA and was probably the most “normal” the “L” at five in the morning. “Jeannie was the last roommate I person I’ve ever had the pleasure She loved it. She adjusted quick- had before I got married. I was of knowing. I remember meeting ly and was acting like a veteran moving in with my wife, and her for the first time in Dallas, within a couple of weeks. Jeannie got her transfer to Boston. right before she moved in with She was so excited to be moving me in Chicago. She was so “The one thing I will always back home to be closer to her happy to be done with New Hire remember about her is when her family, her friends and her Training (who wouldn’t be) and mom would come and stay for a boyfriend. I transferred to Boston ready to start flying. few days. The two of them about two months ago. It is really were like sorority sisters. Once wonderful to see the support and “When she got to Chicago, she her mom got there, the fun friendship here at this base. I was like a kid in a candy store. would begin! They would do believe that Boston is truly the She was so excited to explore everything together! They best base in the system. There everything the city had to offer. would be up early, outside on were so many people and so

  Dianne Bullis Snyder

February    – September  

ianne flew for American for changed my life – she changed at their house than at our own. I lost an incredibly special lady but 19 years, 17 of which were my life. We became instant always envied that special bond forever we will have a beautiful DDbased in New York, the last friends and three years later she these siblings had with each angel looking over our shoulder – two in Boston. Dianne was a lov- was my matron of honor when I other. It was quite unique. guiding us forward. I love you, Di. ing mother and the best choco- married her brother, John. late chip cookie maker. She was “Dianne’s laughter, smile and “Your co-worker, sister-in-law an avid tennis player, a “It’s difficult to sum up Dianne’s quick wit will be missed on and friend,” Dartmouth Indoor Tennis Club life in a few short paragraphs. board the airplane by everyone team member and past club She truly was the ultimate novel. who knew and loved her. We’ve Jill Bullis champion. She organized tennis American Airlines was blessed to JFK Dianne with husband, John groups both in Connecticut and have had her for 19 years of ser- Massachusetts. Gardening was vice. If you were fortunate her latest hobby and she nur- enough to have known Dianne, tured several masterpieces. Her you would know that the things handmade quilts adorn many in life she spoke of and trea- family and friends' homes. Her sured most were her children – close friends know her as an avid Leland, 14 and Blakeslee, 11, her hiker and camper. husband John and her siblings. And I can’t forget her love for Dianne’s sister-in-law writes the tennis – her one true passion following: outside of her family.

“I met Dianne Bullis Snyder eight “Dianne so enjoyed having her years ago while working a flight sister and brothers close by. I Dianne, second from right from JFK to LAX. That flight think John and I spent more time

 Madeline Amy Sweeney

February    – September  

my lived in Acton, Amy’s friend Massachusetts with her Jeannine Pavlik writes: AAhusband, Michael and their two children, Anna, 5 and “About 7 or 8 years ago I Jack, 4. They spent a lot of time became friends with Amy while attending hockey games to watch flying 3-day S-80 trips into her brother-in-law, who played Charlotte N.C. This particular trip was a long layover; we were from l. to r. professionally. Marcia looking for things to do since we Portman, Amy was sweet, soft spoken had already done all our sight- Debbie Lewis, and a joy to work with. She seeing. We were running out of John Ricciotti, options, lucky for us we had Amy and took pride in being a terrific Nancy Moylan mother. If something needed to Englebert Humperdink's band on be done, Amy was the first to our flight and we struck up a volunteer,” stated one of her conversation. They invited us to friends. Another colleague of the concert that evening, and Amy’s stated, “What a wonderful since we had no plans we decid- owned the place, hold our heads A memorial fund has been set Flight Attendant Amy was. She ed to take them up on their up high and make no eye con- up in honor of Amy. Donations was a pleasure to fly with. She offer. They would leave tickets tact. We got right in, walked up may be sent to: was always out there wherever for the crew (myself, Amy, and to the front stage and enjoyed there was work to be done and Brenda Rampe) at the front the concert. The Madeline A. Sweeney was pleasant to her passengers entrance. When we arrived at Memorial Fund and co-workers. the concert there were no tickets. “I will forever miss Amy's smile c/o Linda Cetrone Amy, right, with Jeannine Pavlik at an The concert had been sold out and laughter; she was an out- Middlesex Savings Bank Englebert Humperdink concert for weeks. We were disappoint- standing, incredibly professional 577 Mass Avenue W. ed but decided we were going to flight attendant and a wonderful Acton, MA 01720 the concert anyway. We would friend.” sneak in somehow (after all we were invited!). So we went for it. Jeannine (Staples) Pavlik Our plan was to walk in like we BOS

 CharlesCaptain “Chic” Burlingame I want her to know that Chic his house where each one of us would consider it a victory against (three Flight Attendants) would bers told me with tears in her eyes with the kind of freedoms that those who took the lives of his have a beautiful bedroom. He let and a smile on her face, “Whenever Americans enjoy than air travel. passengers and crew if she ulti- us sleep for a few hours, then took we saw that it was Chic in the mately decides to put on her uni- us out on his boat for diving, snor- cockpit we knew two things: we “It angers me beyond words to form and show up for duty. I keling and for me, just plain sea- were going to have a fun trip and know that as a result of these know she can get another one, sickness! When we returned to we were going to get home sooner. attacks some of the more vulnera- but I’m sending her back that pin. the house, Chic would bring us We called him ‘Rocket Man.’ ble airlines may face bankruptcy back these great chicken dinners and that a powerhouse like “God bless you all and while we would shower and get “I feel a special connection to you American has been forced to insti- hang tough,” ready for our trip home. because of Chic, but also because I tute massive layoffs. I know that was a Flight Attendant for seven Chic would be angry, too. He Debra Burlingame “I remember the first time I went to years with TWA. I know that no would be watching the stock market Sister of Chic Burlingame grab a towel. His towels smelled group within an airline company and exhorting everyone he knows Los Angeles, California so good! I couldn't believe a guy works harder, cares more about its NOT to sell. He would be advis- September 25, 2001 would have such great smelling irst, I would like to passengers or has closer contact ing people to keep investing in the towels! I asked him what he used thank those of you with them. You are on the front economy by buying goods and ser- “Last week, as we all were glued to so I could have great smelling tow- “F“Fwho were able to lines, in good times and bad. Chic vices. He would be urging his the TV watching and waiting for els too, and I’m proud to tell you attend Chic’s memorial at the knew that, too. He loved his job; friends and neighbors to keep get- any bit of information to help us that Chic introduced me to Naval Academy a few weeks ago. you were one of the reasons. ting on airplanes, whether for busi- sort through this madness, the Downey. I know it may seem like Chic would have been so proud ness or leisure. He would tell names of the crewmembers and a silly thing to remember, but I to see that sea of blue uniforms “I know that the terrible events of them, and you, for God’s sake, GO all those lost were listed. For the guess I hadn't thought about it for filling the chapel and I know that September 11 have hit you particu- TO WORK. In the wake of such country as a whole we felt so sad forever and when I thought about it meant a great deal to his wife, larly hard. I was told that some of gross tragedy and real fear, I’m to see the names, but as flight him and what a great guy he was, Sheri, to witness such a powerful you – including some of the most absolutely certain he would consid- crew when we see someone we it just brought that back. demonstration of love and sup- senior among you – are having dif- er the act of putting on your uni- know, we, at that very moment, port from the folks with whom ficulty returning to work. Some form and getting on that airplane become numb. That very feeling “Time went by, and we didn't have both she and Chic worked. Our have already made the decision to the most eloquent expression of came over me when I saw Chic to fly all-nighters anymore. Chic entire family was simply over- resign. This is understandable; courage and patriotism that you, as Burlingame’s name. I'd known went on to get married and the last whelmed by the turnout that day. you lost friends and colleagues in an individual, can make. Chic for years. He brought to time I saw him he showed me pic- the most brutal way. But I am mind a fun time and I thought I tures of his lovely wife and his two “During this past month, Chic’s deeply saddened and disturbed by “I flew home to Los Angeles three could share a cute story of him. beautiful dogs. Quite clearly he friends and colleagues have this reaction, nonetheless. I urge days ago on the same scheduled was happy. That's what we should shared wonderful stories about you all to consider what experts flight that turned out to be Chic’s “Years ago, a few of us flew the remember.” him, but none are more colorful agree was the ultimate goal of the last. In his honor, I wore an APFA MIA all-nighter from LAX (main- or touch me more than the ones terrorists: to disrupt the economy union pin on my lapel. It was ly because it was all we could Jo Ann Mondrus that come from you, the Flight and, ultimately, to destroy our given to me after his memorial ser- hold and you know, you make the LAX Attendants. Chic had a genuine American way of life. No industry vice by a Flight Attendant who told best of it). Chic lived in Florida respect and affection for you. is more vital to our economy and me that she hadn’t made up her and would pick us up at the air- Chic is survived by his wife, Sheri, As one of his former crewmem- no activity more closely associated mind about going back on the line. port at 5:30 a.m. and take us to a Flight Attendant based in DCA.

 JohnCaptain Ogonowski

ohn was married to made the Dean’s List and was named Norrie Stanton. In her Margaret (Peggy) listed in Who’s Who Among usual teasing way and with her JJOgonowski – a Boston Students in American Scottish accent she kept telling based Flight Attendant. They Universities and Colleges in me to go talk to the Flight had three children – Laura, 1971-72. John flew with the US Engineer because he was cute Carolyn and Mary Kate. He Air Force as a C-141 Commander and single. I finally did and we was a loving husband and father. and was a 23-year veteran with got married 11 months later. We American Airlines. would have been married 18 He was a fourth generation farm years in October. boy who never forgot his roots. “I had about five years with the He also grew hay, corn, blueber- company and was still on a “It was wonderful to be John's ries and peaches on his family’s reserve rotation when I was wife. I thank all my fellow co- 150 acres in Dracut, assigned the extra position to workers who have always told Massachusetts that will be pre- Phoenix. I got on the 727-200 me over the years that he was served as open space to his and handed my “blue sheet” to one their favorite pilots.” legacy. He and his brother Jim the Flight Engineer. I noted to operated the farm together. myself that I did not know him Peg Ogonowski even though he was based in BOS John graduated from Lowell Boston and I thought I knew Technological Institute with a almost everyone there. The bachelor’s degree in nuclear number one on the trip was a engineering. While at school he favorite of mine, a senior lady

 ThomasFirst Officer McGuinness, Jr.

om was a devoted hus- Donations can be made in honor band, married 18 years, as of Tom to: TTwell as a loving father to his two children Jennifer Thomas McGuinness and Tom, Jr. He loved his fami- Memorial Fund ly with all his heart. Tom was c/o The Bank of New Hampshire selfless, a man of honor and P.O. Box 243 integrity. He was a true friend. Rye, NH 03870

Tom was a graduate of Boston University, a Lieutenant Commander and F-14 pilot in the US Navy, and a 12-year vet- eran with American Airlines. Tom was a member of Bethany Church and was devoted to His Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, in whom he had placed all of his trust.

He was deeply loved and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.

 DavidFirst Officer Charlebois

everal years ago, David for the memorial service. He had a unique way of making peo- would never understand such evil. and I had made plans to barely knew David, yet somehow ple feel good about themselves. If David were alive, he would be “S“Smeet for lunch and I was, he felt connected to him. This is As self-deprecating as he was, he the first person to lend a hand, as usual, running a little late. As the effect David had on people. would not tolerate that quality in contribute his time and selflessly I approached the deli, I saw others and had a special ability to comfort those in pain. I have David coming out of the shop “I first met David ten years ago at detect when someone was in pain heard time and time again from with a sandwich in his hand. initial pilot training for American or uncomfortable, and he sought to friends that this tragedy has given My first thought was that maybe Airlines and we soon became help. These are not simply words them a new perspective on life, he’d grown tired of waiting for friends. David’s first base assign- that come to mind now that David shown them what is really impor- me and had already ordered his ment was Washington, D.C., his is gone; these are words that peo- tant – family, friends and relation- lunch. He then walked over to a home, and he encouraged me to ple used to describe David ships. That is what makes this so homeless man lying on the side- transfer there despite the fact that throughout his life. painfully ironic. David knew all walk and handed him the sand- I was slightly senior to him. He of that before this tragedy. David wich. I asked David what that graciously took me into his home “Our mutual friends often teased got it. I will not allow this to be was all about and he reluctantly, until I got settled into my new us that we rarely worked. an awful tragedy that I will eventu- in almost an embarrassed man- place and was always there to Although we all know that this is ally get over and go back to “life ner, told me that he had asked help me grow comfortable with not completely true, the nature of as usual.” I intend to start living this gentleman what he wanted this big, beautiful city that he our job schedule did afford us a my life more like David lived his for lunch and bought it for him. loved so much. regular opportunity to spend time life all along. And I’m going to together over lunch or coffee while miss him. “This was the kind of guy David “Over the years we became closer our friends were at work. It was Charlebois was. and even as I made more friends, during these conversations that I “Never in my life have I been he was always the person I turned came to appreciate David’s passion more proud to be an American, “Soon after I learned of this to when I had important news, for his convictions and his ability an American Airlines pilot, and awful tragedy, I got a call from whether it was good or bad. He to eloquently articulate these beliefs David Charlebois’ friend.” an old high school friend who was a great listener. I remember to those who had differing ideas. I had met David briefly about how he spoke lovingly of his fam- always admired David’s courage. First Officer Ken Headley seven years ago. Even though ily and friends. I never met any- DCA he lives in Pensacola, Florida, my one who didn’t like David. He “As difficult as it is for all of us to friend, without hesitation, said was always compassionate, kind, try to understand the motivation that he was going to drive the 14 and had this quiet, modest self- behind these despicable acts, hours it would take to get here confidence that I admired. David David, more than anyone I know,

 side, the bruises of our spirits will “We have much to be proud of: fade, the cloud in our heads will who we are as crewmembers, dissipate. And, in reality we have who we are as employees, and already started this journey. It’s most of all, who we are as human ironic to me how whenever I start beings. Carry your head high, Memorial Offered at the to doubt humanity, I am confront- wear your uniform proudly, and ed with a huge dose of compas- spread your compassion freely as sion. Right when I need it most. you have these past two weeks. It is like a wake up call from God. We all desperately need it. New York Service You all were that dose for me. Almost immediately, the calls “We will miss our fellow started coming in, ‘How can I crewmembers deeply. They will by JFK Chairperson Michelle Nasca help you?’ and ‘What can I do?’ never leave our thoughts and And you were there, not only for prayers. I feel confident that we n behalf of American Airlines, United each other, but also for our com- all have made them proud of us; panies and our nation. It really not only in our resolve to be “O“OAirlines, and their employees, I would has been incredible to watch it strong but also in the way we have celebrated their lives. like to first extend my sincere thanks and unfold right before my eyes. appreciation to both Pastor Hill and Pastor “I do have one personal sugges- “I would like to close with a few tion and that is do not try to lines of a beautiful song entitled Recla, whose incredible support and love has make sense of this horrible ‘Prayer to St. Peter’ by Edwin tragedy, as you will never achieve McCain.” helped bring this beautiful service to light. I this. Instead, find an appreciation in every day that dawns before Let them in Peter, for they are tired. would also like to thank all of you who have you. I, for one, will never look at Give them couches where the angels volunteered countless hours of your time on life the same again. The words sleep and light those fires. cherish, priceless, and treasure behalf of all of those that you helped, my have taken on a whole new mean- Let them love Peter, for they’ve had ing for me. no time, they should have bird songs heartfelt thanks. and trees, and hills to climb. “We are strong and we will get “I am one of those people who is another and as we do share our through this. I was amazed at the And tell them how they are missed, really affected by music. I am thoughts and emotions, the heal- strength that was shown when on but say not to fear, it’s going to be also one of those people that ing will begin. It will take a long the first day that we resumed all right with us down here. work well under pressure. So, time. Today, our hearts painfully operation, hundreds of crewmem- late last night while I sat at my hurt, our spirits are black and bers showed up in their uniforms computer to put on paper what I blue and our minds are in a – still frightened, but ready to would say today, I put on some cloud of smoke. We struggle work. You impressed your com- of the most beautiful music I through our days only to find we panies, you impressed your know and started to write. have accomplished one small unions, the passengers, and most task. But, over time, with the of all, you should have impressed “I could have written all night. I strength and love that we give to yourselves. It was not easy; of feel there is so much that each one another, we will survive. this I am sure. of us has to share with one The pain in our hearts will sub-

 “My dear coworkers gathered here somebody’s best friend, some- Memorial Offered at the today in loving memory of our body’s buddy bidder or some- fallen colleagues are still strug- body’s roommate in training. gling, as is the entire country, to Our profession is our bond. come to terms with the tragedy Los Angeles Service which has touched us all so. “The Flight Attendant family is Every crewmember, no matter a unique one ... teamwork and how junior or how senior, male or ingenuity are our hallmarks. by LAX Chairperson John Nikides female, finds themselves at some The same tenacity that allows point emotionally onboard those us to serve a full load of pas- doomed aircraft, living through sengers with minimum crew that awful scenario, trying to will help us persevere and sur- make some sense of what is an vive these horrific times. The would like to introduce myself. My name is unfathomable situation. The same ingenuity that enables us crews of American flight 77 and to make 30 meals stretch to “I“IJohn Nikides. I am the Los Angeles flight 11, as well as our brethren serve 50 passengers will Domestic Chairperson for the Association of on United flight 175 and flight 93, empower us to play our role in are us, and we are them. improving the system, so that Professional Flight Attendants. While I actually nobody else will ever have to “I refuse to believe that my fellow give their lives in such a sense- represent American Airlines Flight Attendants crewmembers gave their lives in less way. vain. As senseless as their deaths only, the airline family has, historically, thrown appear to be, they gave their lives “Please allow yourselves the down all boundaries in a time of crisis. When so others could live in peace. We time to grieve. Out of our grief are forever changed by the events will come healing, and from one of us is cut, all of us bleed. that befell them. They are, that healing will come strength. indeed, looking down upon us, We will emerge stronger; more watching over us, empowering us, unified and ever more vigilant. “A little more than a week ago, “For the most part, going to work and cheering us on. We owe it to our fallen col- my greatest representational con- on an American Airlines aircraft leagues, and those of us who cerns were unfair check rides has always represented a comfort “We cannot let them down. remain behind to carry on their and passenger complaint letters. zone for us. Our identities, legacy. They are here with us How could we ever have envi- whether we like to admit it or “The airline family is a lot smaller today ... and they would want it sioned the events that would not, are inextricably lined with than any of us could ever realize. no other way. befall us that horrific Tuesday our employer, and with our The term “six degrees of separa- morning? Even now, most of us coworkers. When our faith in tion” describes our community. “I salute you, my fellow airline have not even begun to compre- the system is shaken, and the No matter the color of your uni- family, in the name of all those hend the enormity of our loss ... security of our comfort zone is form, or the style of your wings, who gave their lives in the line as airline crew ... as airline challenged, we respond in many we are one. We have all been of duty that fateful Tuesday employees ... as citizens, and as ways: fear, confusion, anger and touched by this tragedy. Every morning.” a country. grief, to name a few. one of those crewmembers was

 When takeoffs resumed out of rorism and unemployment, not every airport but Reagan necessarily in that order. National, most flight attendants pushed aside fear and grief, and Let us then inquire of the blue pla- returned to duty. On this toons. What is going on inside morning at Dulles, the facial the well-coiffed head, behind the expressions are resolute, the reassuring mask? small talk minimal, as the blue platoons file briskly down the Francois Schneider, a United corridor to the security barrier. Airlines flight attendant bound from Dulles to Brussels, has the The firefighters who rushed into bearing of a man who is going to the inferno of the World Trade war. “It's so unsure what's going Center have been turned into on with the layoffs, safety on the The Blue Platoons folk heroes, deservedly so. Flight planes,” he says, furrowing his attendants have not enjoyed a brow. Then his body stiffens and The following article appeared in the fraction of the acclaim. his face clears. “I won't let those people get to me and I won't let Washington Post on October 1, 2001. Maybe we're finding it just a lit- them change my way of life ... No tle hard to ascribe personality, matter what, I will make sure peo- by David Montgomery biography, emotion, heroism to ple know they are safe.” Washington Post Staff Writer airborne actors stuck with lines like, “Please place your seat As they pass through security and backs and tray tables in an file to their gates, there's some- The first blue platoons reach in the line of duty on Sept. 11. At upright and locked position.” thing to add. It is the universal Dulles International Airport at least two were stabbed by hijack- prayer of flight attendants – a plea dawn. With perfect hair, they ers, according to cell phone con- What thanks are flight attendants for respect. debark from employee shuttle versations reported later. At least getting? buses, snap out the handles of two others reportedly made calls It's on the lips of Betty Malish, their black rolling bags, and step to their supervisors on the How does this sound: heading to Denver with United: smartly through the terminal – ground, giving details about the You're fired. “They might see us as a little bit the men silent on thick rubber crimes in progress, doing their more than a waitress.” soles, the women clicking and jobs until the end. Since Sept. 11, airlines have clacking on short, square heels. announced more than 90,000 Grief in the Galley Hundreds of others were in layoffs. Some details announced Their uncovered heads and the midair throughout the hemi- so far: Continental says it will Their job is to be the smiling face diminutive stripes on their uni- sphere when word of the terrorist furlough 1,800 flight attendants; of flight. The public identity of a form sleeves signal their place in attacks reached their planes. American says it will furlough critical chunk of the economy is the pecking order. Hats and fat Federal officials ordered pilots to 1,000 who have less than six distilled in that peppy figure at the stripes are for captains and first turn around, or divert to unex- months’ seniority; United will front of the cabin. officers. These are flight atten- pected locations. In those scary cut 5,000 for the month of dants, and pretty soon they will minutes it fell to flight attendants October, with future plans to With base salaries topping out be serving coffee. to keep the passengers calm – come, according to the atten- around $39,000, they are trained while they wondered if their own dants' union. to handle crash landings, births, Now it’s time for some respect. planes might be next. air rage – though not terrorists Twenty-five flight attendants died They're scared, all right: of ter-

 bent on suicide. Since the late Some have been temporarily form, line the street as cars bear- one flight, when a colleague 1960s they've been living down grounded by horrible nightmares. ing the families of Kenneth and launched into the safety demonstra- “Coffee Tea or Me?,” the best- Jennifer Lewis drive slowly up to tion before takeoff, he opened the seller purporting to chronicle the “People put on that uniform, and Culpeper Baptist Church. The safety information card and held it adventures of two stewardesses. they get through security, and Lewises – “Kennifer” to their up so the passengers could see. they can't do it,” says Jennifer friends – were flight attendants There, in big letters, Jennifer Lewis They are so good at what they Grega, a United flight attendant aboard American Airlines Flight had written, “Help I Need a Date.” do that we stopped paying atten- who provided emotional support 77, which crashed into the tion. We did not get out the at Dulles as co-chair of the Pentagon. The couple would “The crowd was laughing so hard, laminated safety information Association of Flight Attendants’ often “buddy-bid” – apply for the captain actually stopped the air- cards to study the closest emer- employee assistance program. identical flying schedules. plane to see if everything was gency exit. We were sold: “The hardest part for everyone is okay,” Young says. Flying was safe and easy, and getting on that airplane. Once The women and men in the long flight attendants were the hired they're on, they can keep it line of blue place their hands over Another time Lewis got passengers help to ease us on our self- together.” their hearts, wipe tears, embrace, in the first five rows to throw pil- absorbed journeys to fabulous clutch boxes of tissue, grasp red lows at another flight attendant as vacations and vital business The images in a flight attendant's teddy bears with golden wings. soon as they heard the words meetings. mind are still horrifyingly The bears are a symbol of the “Fasten your seat belts.” personal. Wings Foundation, an organiza- Now the smiling face of flight is tion to help American flight Stories of how flight attendants live grieving and scared, mostly on “Those bastards were here,” attendants. might not erase the image of how the inside. Still, some can't Grega says. “They were in this they died, says Barry Gore, Jennifer quite nail the main trick of the airport. You walk through securi- Inside the church, his-and-hers Lewis' brother, addressing the con- trade anymore, the underappre- ty and you see the same people pressed blue uniforms with the gregation. He conjures up the pic- ciated ability to communicate at looking at those screens, and you thin silver stripes on the sleeves ture he likes to stamp on those a glance a profound message: tell me: What's changed?” are stretched on mannequins near final moments. “All is well.” the pulpit. Martine Primm, with US Airways, He can see the two in “a big Hundreds have sought counsel- watches replays of the fiery crash- The eulogies offer glimpses of old bear hug.” ing. Some disappear into lava- es, and pictures herself inside one the real people behind the smil- tories to collect themselves of the doomed cabins. “I could ing faces. The Lewises had both “They were there for each other to when rogue insecurities threaten imagine getting my neck slit in accepted Christ as their personal the very end,” he says. “I believe that outward unflappability. order to move the passengers back savior. Jennifer first flirted with they were in the best of hands to the back,” she says. “I know Kenneth in a Georgetown bar, when they were with each other.” Some return to duty a little too what went on in the galley. I can and both were Parrotheads – tightly wound. Last week a see the fear. I can feel the sur- devotees of Jimmy Buffett. Two A Change in the Rules Northwest Airlines flight atten- prise of it.” Buffett songs are played in church dant mistakenly declared an – “Come Monday,” about return- The actions of the flight attendants emergency on the Dulles tar- Lost Colleagues ing home to your sweetheart after on the four hijacked planes may mac, prompting the pilot and a long weekend away, and “Son never be known for sure. Almost cockpit officers to abandon ship Eight days after the tragedy, of a Son of a Sailor,” about the certainly they operated under the via rope ladders. (The flight dozens of professionally chipper rakish adventures of travel. old assumed ground rules. attendants were afforded no people are weeping in unison on Hijackers were thought to be des- such means of escape – some- South West Street in Culpeper, Flight attendant Lisa Young perate to reach a particular destina- thing else for them to ponder.) Va. About 240 of them, all in uni- describes several pranks. During tion, extract ransom or score politi-

 cal points without necessarily sac- water to throw at the hijackers, brave front for everyone. lines have been reporting the same rificing their own lives. according to her hometown phenomenon: Passengers are treat- paper, the News & Record of “You find yourself smiling, have- ing them more like real people. Flight attendants were taught not Greensboro, N.C. a-nice-day type thing,” she to resist and to keep everything recalled. “Then you think, How An answered prayer. How long calm. “We need to make sure “We're all running to first class,” can you smile? You also want to will it last? that gets updated to reflect the she said. “I've got to go. Bye.” show you're human.” realities that we know now,” says On that first flight, one of Dawn Deeks, spokeswoman for The plane crashed in rural Three days later, Andersen was Andersen's colleagues was pushing the Association of Flight Pennsylvania. preparing for that tense initiation, the meal cart through the cabin. Attendants. the first post-Sept. 11 flight. She The dinner selection was not to An Ocean Away picked up a Gideon Bible and the liking of one passenger. Aboard American Airlines Flight started reading the 23rd Psalm, a 11, which took off from Logan At about that instant, flight atten- favorite of her grandfather's. She “Don't I have a choice?” she wailed. International Airport, flight atten- dant Tammie Andersen was high noticed some of the words dant Madeline Sweeney used a above the Atlantic Ocean, aboard echoed in a newspaper headline Nothing the flight attendant said cell phone to contact a ground a United flight 3 1/2 hours out of in the hotel room: “Shadow of would console the hungry passen- services manager, according to an London's Heathrow Airport, Death.” ger. The smiling face of flight FBI report disclosed in the Los heading to Dulles. retreated, before losing its temper. Angeles Times. The same crew and many of the The first officer emerged from same passengers were booked on Andersen recalls the incident later, Two flight attendants had been the cockpit to speak to the purser, the flight to Dulles, but one flight as she watches a bomb-sniffing stabbed, she said. “A hijacker the lead flight attendant. Then attendant declined to make the dog patrol the Dulles terminal. also cut the throat of a business- the purser quietly informed trip. It was too soon after the class passenger, and he appears to Andersen that two airliners had tragedy. “We were all just thinking: People be dead.” crashed into the World Trade lost their lives, and you're worried Center. Andersen discovered she did not about a meal choice?” The manager asked if she knew feel afraid. “I'm not going to let her location. She responded: “I The captain came on the inter- this take over my life,” she told Reprinted with permission from see water and buildings. Oh my com and told the passengers that herself. The Washington Post God! Oh my God!” the United States had declared a state of emergency, and he was Airborne, she gingerly attempted The call ended abruptly, and flying the plane back to London. a little humor as she and some Flight 11 was the first to crash He connected a BBC news feed first-class passengers chuckled into the World Trade Center. to the cabin that the passengers over having to use plastic knives could listen to on their head- to cut airline pork – no easy task. Aboard United Airlines Flight 93, phones. The news was constant- some passengers with cell phones ly updated, and soon the passen- One passenger came up and learned from people on the gers knew more than the flight hugged Andersen, saying, “I'm ground about the earlier hijack- attendants. The passengers told back and here for the flight and ings. They apparently resolved to them of the crashes into the so glad to see you. Is your family regain control of the aircraft. Pentagon and Pennsylvania. all right?”

Flight attendant Sandra Bradshaw Andersen didn't know whether to Andersen was struck by the shift called her husband and told him let herself – force herself – to in passengers’ attitude toward her. the flight attendants were boiling smile. She wanted to put on a Flight attendants from many air-

 We've always done what we do best Lean on each other for support, Up in the friendly skies. Lend others a helping hand. And then one awful, fateful day American, our dedication, We're taken by surprise. United, we will stand. An unseen, unknown enemy Attacking us in hate, We ask each other, "How they dare?" And using what has made us proud We cannot understand. To destroy what's made us great. We search for answers, search for meaning, No answer is at hand. We watch in shock the scenes unfold, Hate must not replace sorrow, We watch in disbelief. Of this we're very sure. We shake our heads, we wipe our eyes, American, we bow our heads, Unspeakable, the grief. United, we'll endure. And through it all, while it unfolds We cannot help but cry - The unknown numbers, now with God, American, we cling together As angels, by his side, United, we ask why? Must want for us to carry on, To not withdraw and hide. Please, wake us from this nightmare, And so, it's in their memory, It all seems so unreal. That we will hold so long. We force ourselves to carry on American, we will stand tall, In a new world, so surreal. United, we'll be strong.

Suzanne Moses September 13, 2001

  Holly Buxton, LAX Stephanie McVeigh, ORD Kim Pitcher, DFW Contributions Deborah Whittington, DFW uring the midst of the photo of the memorial in Terri S. Roundtree, IDF TO THE APFA DDtragic happenings of Skyword when the project is Alexandria L. Wroe, IDF September 11, 2001, Flight complete. George L. Price, IDF 11/77 Attendants were calling in and Arthur Cline, LGA requesting APFA to initiate a APFA would like to thank the Vanessa Torres, LGA Memorial memorial in honor of our fallen following people for their Jeffrey M. Hiskey, IDF crewmembers. We made the contributions: Barbara Schutz, IDF decision to ensure a perma- Jodi Czabajszki, APFA Secretary Fund nent marker would be erected Raymond & Sharon Torrey Michaela Hightower, DFW at APFA Headquarters to Brad W. Leete, III, IMA Kim A. Corthell, LGA remember the loss of our sev- Michelle Draper, IMA David L. and Jacque P. Fuson enteen crewmembers. Thanks Curtis J. Jones, LAX Shannon P. McGill, BOS to the generous contributions Gregory W. Stone, LAX Susan K. Medrow, DFW of so many wonderful Flight M. Greenough Cheryl Walters, IDF Attendants, associates and Debbie Richardson, DFW Patty Bias, SFO family members, more than Jan Delanois, DFW Kathy Fagan-Besse, IDF enough money was collected Barbara Goodwin, LAX Communications World of Dallas, Inc. to purchase a large oak tree Jane M. Ooms, LAX Martina S. Graf, SFO and a granite memorial mark- Cynthia A. Van Pelt, JFK Suzanne E. Spedding, IMA er. This memorial will be put Carol Davis Bullock, MIA Jacqueline T. Banach, ORD in place on the northwest Tina Lee Jordan, LAX Stan L. Lemmel, SEA grounds of APFA in the very Stephanie P. Steinruck, ORD Soo Y. Lee, JFK near future. We will place a Sharon L. Derienzo, LAX Melissa Southey, LAX-I

 This bag tag insert was creat Virginia M. Friedlob, IDF ed in honor of our fellow Rosemary J. Thibodeau, IDF crewmembers whose lives were lost on September # Marty Turner, IDF  $ All proceeds will go to Myrene Sanders, IDF their families$ As of the date of Skyword’s printing# we have Cummings-Fennewald Plumbing Co., Ellisville, MO, received well over # in Clinton Cummings, father of ORD F/A donations from Flight Attendants system wide$ UAL Pilot Deborah L. McEndree & AAL Mechanic Randle C. McEndree Jim Highfill# JMH Printing in Grand Prairie# TX# is our printer and honorary Janet L. Richards, BOS-I The following is an example of some of the messages Union member$ He donated the cost of Angela M. Acosta, IDF that were included with the donations. printing for  of these inserts$ We cannot thank him enough for his love# and Maria T. Renner, IOR kindness throughout this terrible tragedy$ Bradley Puckett, SFO-I “We hope this will assist in some small way those affected by this terrible tragedy.” If you would like to receive a bag tag Gail S. St. Onge, ORD “Please accept this donation in honor of our daughter, an 18-year insert# please send a donation (payable by Nicki Saunders, IMA flight attendant with American and in memory of Sara Low, who check) to ‘APFA Bagtag’$ If you would like to order more than one# please Debbie Guidry, DFW was so tragically killed in one of the airplanes. Thank you for working to keep the crews safe.” include at least  per insert and specify Therese R. Marcinko, IDF the number of inserts you would like$ “Please accept this donation on behalf of our family. Our daugh- Robert and Gail Armstrong ter is a F/A out of ORD; our heart goes out to the families.” Include a self-addressed, stamped (relatives of BOS-I F/A Joann Matley) envelope and mail to: “My contribution to the 11/77 fund; I give it with pride and honor.” Lori and Gordan Buenger, parents of F/A Sue “Thank you for giving us a chance to give … Our loss goes so APFA Bagtag Medrow, and in memory of Sara Low deep. There are no words for this sadness.” c/o Communications Department  West Euless Blvd$ Barbara Myers, IDF “I’m so very sorry this unspeakable tragedy came to us; I don’t Euless# TX   Lenard Blackwell, DFW know what to do or say to comfort. Please accept my sincerest condolences and my deepest sympathy.” Lawrence Mock, DFW Pamela Sutherland, LAX “Please accept this small contribution as a token of my heartfelt anguish at the loss of our co-workers, friends and AA family.” Linda Locastro, IMA “We will never forget the heroism of our fellow crew members. James Andrews, DCA God be with their families and with all of us.” Helen Matley, mother of BOS-I F/A Joann Matley

 by Laura Glading

uring the week of September 24th there Dwere memorials held in New York and Boston for the American and United crewmem- bers lost in the World Trade Center tragedy. Both memorials had a “rose ceremony” where a single red rose represented each fallen crewmember. I was honored when the Base Chairs from Boston and New York asked me to participate. Both services were beautiful.

The New York service was very The Boston service was enor- a small group of six people to be the warnings, I was very much well attended despite poor weath- mous. It was held outdoors at transported by the New York City looking forward to this trip. I er and the (now) ever-present the Boston Civic Center and was Police Department from JFK to the have lived my entire life in New challenge of traveling around the attended by some 25,000 people. heart of Ground Zero. The group York. I not only knew one of the New York area. The service had Bette Midler sang and the consisted of a Flight Attendant and crewmembers, I grew up with to be delayed while we waited for Boston Symphony Orchestra Pilot from American and United one of the fire fighters that was people who sat in traffic for string section performed. The (all union representatives), an IAM killed and knew people working hours due to car searches and Governor of Massachusetts, the representative and Father Richard in the Twin Towers. A close random checks at bridges and Mayor of Boston, and other Uftring, the chaplain who presided friend of mine with three tunnels. There was no press cov- politicians, religious leaders and over the Boston service. teenage children lost her hus- erage. The press and politicians union representatives all took band in this tragedy. His firm could not possibly attend the part in the service. Our journey to what was once the lost 60 of their 80 employees that hundreds of memorial services World Trade Center took place day. My father and uncle were held in New York each week, I was asked to arrange for the early on September 27th. We had New York City fire fighters, and however, hundreds of New York roses from both ceremonies be been warned by the Mayor’s office my brothers are traders. based crewmembers attended the brought and left at Ground Zero, and the Police Department that we Everyone in my family knew service to honor and bid a peace- their final resting place. may find the scene very disturbing. someone who was killed. My ful goodbye to their co-workers. Although it was not an easy They also warned us that the rub- community, like all the surround- task, I managed to get permis- ble was still smoldering and that ing communities, is mourning sion from the Mayor’s office for there was a terrible stench. Despite losses. I clearly remember miss- ing school while in college so that I could visit the observation deck of the Twin Towers the very day that it opened. It all hit so close to home. I felt like war had broken out in my back- yard. For some inexplica- ble reason I believed that visiting the site would help me heal.

area would We walked directly to the partial need to be cavity that had once been Tower knocked down One. We said a prayer and had a due to structur- moment of silence for the fallen al damage. crewmembers. Then we took the The streets roses and tossed them onto the were muddy rubble. How bright the red roses due to the con- looked in contrast to the ashen stant spraying rubble. of water to keep the dust and Initially, I felt like an intruder. I debris from fly- sensed people watching us and ing around. thought perhaps they considered There was a us trespassers or voyeurs. But definite stench, after our short service we went but luckily it and introduced ourselves to some was a cool and of the rescuers. We thanked them breezy day. It for all of their hard work. They Flight Attendants grieve at Boston Memorial Service. very much were anxious to share their stories ( Photos courtesy of Mark Garfinkel from the Boston Herald ) looked like a and show us around. I met one of war zone. As I the fire fighters who was trapped Nothing I had been told nor evacuated. The only people on studied the massive heaps of and rescued the day of the anything I had seen in the news- the streets were police officers, rubble I noticed that they consist- tragedy. He told me that he papers or on the television had fire fighters, soldiers, and sanita- ed of no more than crumpled responded to the call with a group prepared me for the scene at tion and construction workers. cement and twisted and torn of 28 co-workers. He was one of Ground Zero. We had to walk All were very dusty, very tired metal. I did not see any desks, the eight survivors. He had about three blocks to reach the and very solemn. There were computer parts, phones or even returned every day since then to rubble that was once the towers. many dilapidated and burnt-out glass. The fire dissolved the help with the rescue and recovery The street and buildings along buildings surrounding those entire contents of the building. It effort. They actually had quite a the way were covered in gray buildings that had already col- is still very hard to believe that few questions for us. We were a ashes. Storefronts were boarded lapsed. I was told that most of all of the devastation occurred in piece of this horrible puzzle. It up and the buildings were all the structures in the immediate a matter of hours. occurred to me that we all were

looking for answers. In a very short time camaraderie had formed. We are all hard working people who wear uniforms. We are all suddenly mourning the loss of our brave co-workers.

I delivered roses and a message to our fallen heroes that day. During our moment of silence I told them that we all know what really happened that day; we know that they did all that they could. There was nothing in a manual or training class that could have begun to prepare us for this unfathomable act of ter- ror. I told them that we will never forget them, and we will try to take care of their loved ones. And then I asked God to bless and take care of them.

As written and read by PhoneWatch Center during con- working with our webmaster to to go back to “the way it was,” Trice Johnson, MIA Flight tract negotiations is up and run- set up a “disaster page” that will now? What's normal? Was this Attendant, at Miami’s ning within a matter of hours as offer information on everything event and the lost lives of our Memorial Service. a new modified care resource from donating blood to local friends and coworkers somehow center, of sorts, for Flight counseling services so that Flight a sign for us all to slow down Attendants who are stranded all Attendants all over the world can and take notice that the way we over the world. Additional "click on" their computers and get were living before might not The phone lines are suddenly pulled the info they need for dealing have indeed been “normal” after from the ceiling and in its first with this crisis. all, and that we need to come up Defining 28 hours of operations, Flight with a different way of living our Attendants in Dallas have taken Several Flight Attendants take precious, yet frenetic, lives? over 1,600 phone calls from sandwiches and chips to the AA Moment other Flight Attendants around crew schedulers who have been I had gone to Dallas late the country who are in distress on duty for hours and have the Monday night for a “wrap up” and seeking information. grueling task of trying to build meeting regarding our years long Phones are ringing; bulletin flight sequences and contact struggle to obtain a contract with My name is Trice Johnson. For board information is updated; crewmembers to work potential American Airlines management. those of you who are AA Flight and memos are strewn about the flights. As events are changing I was tired and worn out from Attendants, you may know that I room as countless volunteers so quickly, this daunting chal- that struggle. I left Thursday was the Eastern Strike Coordinator stream in to offer assistance. lenge is roughly the equivalent of night on one of the only flights for our union in our recent con- Tables of Subway sandwiches, building a sand castle every hour to Miami knowing that my tract negotiations with AA. While Krispy Kreme donuts, and home- only to have a rip roaring tide coworkers in Dallas had taken I did not know any of the Flight made pies and cakes are offered wash it away as soon as the work over for me as volunteers in this Attendants or passengers who lost buffet style for anyone in the appears finished. next battle and that it was time their lives last Tuesday, I can tell building. Suddenly, an for me to rest at home while the you that if they were remotely like announcement is made in the In an ironic shift of events from lives of all of Tuesday's victims any of the other Flight Attendants room that there are two Flight the previous months of tension are resting eternally. I decided that I have seen the last week at Attendants there who are and disagreement over contract that I would go back to work and our union headquarters in Dallas, licensed counselors and available negotiation matters, our union fly a trip as soon as I felt the then I know they were incredible for any callers needing help. President and Vice President are time was right for me. After all, people. I spoke with the Boston in the next room suddenly having if we live in fear and become and Washington union Base Chairs A call is put out in the room for very productive and cooperative filled with hate, then the terror- who told me that all of the Flight Flight Attendants who have their conference calls with senior AA ists win and we become them. Attendants and pilots who lost uniforms and can immediately management on how we can all their lives were truly amazing indi- work trips to Boston and Los work together to make sure Flight And for the first time in a very viduals. I would like to share just a Angeles transporting members Attendants are getting the infor- long time of flying, I climbed bit of what I witnessed at union of the AA and APFA’s Care and mation and resources they need aboard the 777 back to Miami headquarters this week that is truly Go Teams. These teams are to weather this disastrous storm. and sat up and took careful a testimony to what we are all trained to respond to such cata- notice of the billowing clouds capable of in times of incredible strophes. The Flight Attendants On day two and three, the televi- below me. It was not only a sim- adversity and sadness. leave out on flights within just a sion in the background at union ple observation of beauty and few hours. headquarters has reporters com- appreciation, but a new and Within just a few hours after the menting on people’s attempts to defining moment of life's good- accident, our union's main confer- In the next room, our union “get back to normal” with their ness that was just good enough. ence room which served as our Communications Coordinator is daily lives. But do we really want Trice Johnson MIA Myrene Sanders Jim Cornetta Jennifer Thomas Emily Carter Ron Harris Gloria Allen Barbara George Brett Ranger Kip Fry Steve Watson Shirly Cohen Becky Kroll PhoneWatch Bob Walker Steve Williams Jennifer Thomas Jennifer Walker Tom Blowers Patti Smith Kim Coats Vicki Hlavacek Glenda Weitzel On September 11, 2001 at 8:45 est, volunteers stayed until late in The American Red Cross played George Price Jay Narey Kim Hart the evening working tirelessly. a vital role by having licensed a.m. while the APFA phone vol- Patrick Hancock Sam Morales Jane Warren ume reached an unmanageable Flight Attendants and local busi- therapists in the PhoneWatch Art Cline Cheryl Sauve Allyson Osean number, APFA Operator Sandy nesses brought in food and room to assist with callers, volun- James Andrews Gail Maconkey Maddi Shelton Watson, was handed the following refreshments to show their sup- teers, staff, APFA representatives Jan Randall Marie Lockbaum Rita Lawson hand scribbled message to give port for our incredible workers, and many of our co-workers who Kimberly Pitcher Patti Humburger Evelyne Miller Flight Attendants: and several others walked walked into Headquarters the Ben Seaman Christine Helms Diane Schiavo through the door offering to weeks following the attacks. Marty Turner Bobby Webb Barbara Tabor “The APFA Hotline will be assist in any way they could. These Red Cross volunteers Gail Houston Diane Schiaub Bonnie Jarreh Sandy Wroe Susie Allen Adriana Chapa updated when information is arrived in groups of three or Mona Adams Leanne Duffin Lori Hall Many key factors attributed to more every day and stayed dur- confirmed. Romy Skower Giselle Medina Elizabeth Kelley the success of PhoneWatch dur- ing operational hours for two Greg Gatzke Lance Dunahoe Brett Ranger “Flight Attendants are not to go ing those three weeks. Special weeks, including two of the week- Doug Scott Danielle Dunahoe Marsha Gayle to the airport. If they are at the thanks go to the IDF/DFW based ends PhoneWatch was open. Carolyn Maricle Marcia Spencer Paul Lchman airport instruct them to go home Flight Attendants, and those who Amber Laswell Donna Chadbourn Lee Robinson White or to their hotel. were displaced here until they Because we had so many pro- Steve Sanders Carol Schaper Russ Kidwell could get home, who continued grams and tools in place for Don James Jamie Reynolds Lu Ann Rutledge “Call your local base Flight to come day after day throughout negotiations, APFA was able to Tina Todd James Claudia Crandall Rachel Mitchell the crisis. Without the dedication reactivate PhoneWatch and quick- Sharon Harville Keith Anderson Lynne Anderson Service Manager.” Dabney Kidd Brad Laprairie Mary Johansen of these incredible men and ly respond to the crisis. Many Hyon M. Noh Monette Lesley Nonette Lesley Prior to PhoneWatch opening, the women, the membership would diverted crewmembers remem- Lisa Dahlgren Amy Carter Linda Shea initial brief was hastily written so have just heard a busy signal bered reading in their strike Bryce Dahlgren Marianne Durden Ron Aparo that shell-shocked volunteers when they called. George Berry handbook that they were sup- Rick Lange Sherri Hackman Debi Duckworth would have some sort of guide once again stepped up to the posed to “Phone Home” to Julie Tips Belinda Mooney Edi Arbogast Alvarez with which to assist callers. By plate and organized PhoneWatch PhoneWatch and thanks to the Ed Brophy Kathy Fagan-Besse Sandy Mock 3:00 p.m. PhoneWatch had once which was up and running by many people who volunteered Diane Tayman Patty Sinclair Tim Myers again taken over the Unity Pays the afternoon of September 11. their time, there was someone at Debra Whittington Courtney Weddle Judi Franckowiak He didn’t miss a day until we lit- the receiving end of the call. The Carmen Romero Murphy Cindi Grove Joan Whitehouse Conference Room at APFA Debbie Guidry Doris Berube Julie Molaw erally had to push him out the silent and selfless way these cur- Headquarters. Previously disman- Anke Dawson Rosa Coburn-Gonzalez Gaye Greenamyer tled in August, thanks to the vol- door to enjoy some time with his rent and retired Flight Attendants Susan Henry Busch Brenda McKenzie Skylar Taylor unteers who showed up that first family. He is an asset to APFA offered their support for those in Barbara Schutz Kimberly Davison Sandy Lee day and the weeks to follow, it and we couldn’t have done it so need was noticed by all who Rosemary Eskridge Jan Buck Jennifer Mann was once again fully functional. well without him. Myrene passed by that room, or called to Jan Howell Debbie Trapp Rosemary Thibodeau Sanders was there nearly every reach a human voice. Janice Freeman Lise Paulson Shonda Johnson The daily incoming call chart day, as well, helping George with Rebecca Cooper Cheryl Jahreis Briggs Brower peaked on September 12 with at briefings, stuffing PhoneWatch The following Flight Attendants Lisa Blakeman Noelle Weiler Melissa Carter manuals with the latest informa- stepped up to the plate and vol- Jennifer Pena Jennifer Hubbell Susan Nunn 742 calls. Volunteers logged over Shawna McMillin Robyn Stewart Leslie Mayo tion, training new volunteers and unteered their time to answer 7900 total calls before tapering off Nancy Marquart Adriana LaDuke Hugh Wagner prior to closing PhoneWatch on answering calls herself. phone calls at APFA PhoneWatch: Anna Marie Jensen Trey Hopkins Andy Tan Friday, October 5th. During the Vicki Gebow Nancy Archer Teri Roundtree period the call volume was high- Times of laughter, now times of tears Times of joy, now times of fears

The following poem was read at the DCA Memorial Service Smiling faces, now out of sight Vengeful enemies, now filled with delight

Questions unanswered we hear people call Surreal events that have happened to us all

But times of unity have now begun For these monsters must know that they have not yet won

Although tragic events have caused loved ones to part I They live on strongly in our memories n and our hearts M Throughout all the heartache and emory,With anger we feel These innocent souls will help us deal

Listen to their whispers and you will hear ove A message that will come loud and clear L These heroes will never be entirely gone In our familiar skies their spirits forever live on

For what this sadness and grief undoubtedly brings Are several new angels to sit on our wings

Kaitlin Kisela Daughter of Pamela Kisela, DCA September 12, 2001

PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER • Memorial Issue • 2001 PRINTED ON RECYCLED PAPER

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