An Officer And A Gentleman!

Singapore
January 13, 2011 9:41am CST
Indeed! I am commending a certain thoughtful Captain from Southwest Airlines who intentionally delayed his plane by 12 minutes to ensure one of his passenger who was being unduly delayed by the lengthy check-in lines and security checks, be able make a trip to bid his murdered grandson farewell. What a pilot! Just reading this really made me believe that there's still some humanity and people with a lot of heart out there. Such a commendable act and I am sure this unfortunate granddad had a lot to remember and be thankful. Especially, walking up the jetway huffing, puffing and thanking the pilot in between his breath - all the pilot said was and I quote: “They (passengers on board) can’t go anywhere without me and I wasn’t going anywhere without you. Now relax. We’ll get you there. And again, I’m so sorry.” A real commendable individual - don't you think so? Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-1346716/Airline-pilot-holds-plane-family-murdered-toddler.html
2 people like this
4 responses
@topffer (42156)
• France
14 Jan 11
Not "an act of extraordinary kindness", like says this article, but a gesture of humanity, highlighted by the heartless behavior of some other employees, a light of understanding in a crowd of blindness, a mark of respect in front of a great distress. Thank you to share this anecdote, skysuccess.
1 person likes this
• Singapore
14 Jan 11
topffer, "...a light of understanding in a crowd of blindness" indeed. You are welcome. Sometimes, I just wish there are more people like this captain around.... Take care.
1 person likes this
@nova1945 (1612)
• United States
13 Jan 11
Great story. I mostly only fly Southwest, now I know it is the right decision. Thanks
1 person likes this
• Singapore
14 Jan 11
nova1945, I am sure you will feel better flying with this airline because I am feeling the same here. The captain is indeed courageous to go against protocol to make a world of difference for an unfortunate individual. Take care and have a nice day.
@knicnax (2233)
• Philippines
13 Jan 11
This is such a nice story. Though other passengers may have been pissed at first, the act was still very nice. It's hard to lose a loved one, all the more if you lost someone due to murder. The pilot was so nice in helping the grandfather. I hope a lot of people have golden hearts like his
• Singapore
14 Jan 11
knicnax, I must admit that this is really the most heartwarming account for year 2011. The circumstances for this elderly passenger is indeed unfortunate and devastating. It is easy to understand how the world would be to him and this very act of this captain certainly made his day. "A simple act of kindness can change the course of a lifetime." - Anon.
• India
13 Jan 11
Hey really very thankful to you to bring such a story. In this materialistic world this sort of stories make us believe that still there are human-beings in this world of animals. This story gives us inspiration to help others and live like a gentle man. We have become so self centered now a days that we don't even bother to ask the name of the person staying next door. I really thank you once more for your aspiring story.
1 person likes this
• Singapore
14 Jan 11
concept001, You are most welcome. I just felt that everyone here should also learn of this touching story. The very act of kindness and consideration of this pilot is indeed admirable in this world of materialism and harsh reality.