My Challenge to All Fellow Americans

I debated sharing this on my blog as I just am not the type of person that likes to "toot my own horn" so to speak.

So after a week to think about it, here goes.

I had the opportunity to travel First Class on American Airlines last weekend. This was a first for me and I was blown away by what I've been missing. On the second and final leg of my trip back home on last Sunday, I was the first person on the plane. I got my carry on baggage stowed and seated. After the First Class passengers were seated, they started the boarding process for the passengers at the back of the plane. This plane had 32 rows in it. In the first bunch of people I saw a serviceman in full desert camo get on the plane. He was going home from what I could here of the exchange between him and the flight attendant. He walked by and as the rest of the people boarded, I made up my mind. After everyone was on board, I asked the flight attendant to go to the back of the plane and bring the serviceman back up to the front, as I wanted to trade seats with him. Another flight attendant was closing the overhead compartments when I asked her to hold on for a minute. I briefly told her my plans and then the serviceman was coming up the isle. When he got to me, I shook his hand and thanked him for all he is doing for us and to please enjoy his flight.

The first flight attendant leaned over and whispered his seat in my ear, 30D. I carried my bag back there got stowed and seated in a very cramped seat. Looking out the window I had a great view of the side of the engines. It was very loud back there, very uncomfortable, not as smooth a ride as up in First Class. You know what? It was the best flight of my life and I will do it again and again. I will do it every time the opportunity presents itself.

After we landed and I finally made my way up to the front of the plane, the First Class fight attendant stopped me, shook my hand and said that what I did was so generous. I told her it was my pleasure and the least I could do for someone who puts their life on the line for each and every one of us.

I never saw the serviceman again. I didn't really expect to see him, but I will remember the name stenciled on his uniform.

So my challenge America is this. If you are ever flying First Class and you see an American serviceman or woman, offer to trade seats with them. Its simple, painless, and will show them you care and appreciate what they are doing for us.

Just my thoughts.
Bret

Visit my blog at http://bretsthoughts.blogspot.com/
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