Landing On Target!

Inclusion. 

It is what an Employee Resource Group (ERG) is all about.  When an ERG can step outside of its box and include other people and other ERGs, it exhibits what we all strive for….diversity and inclusion in all that we do.

On 27 JAN, VMERG was able to collaborate with the  Abilities Resource Group to bring to HDQ1 an exciting and uplifting event where SFC Dana Bowman (ret) was the keynote speaker.  I think it is safe to say that about 200 people showed up to hear SFC Bowman speak.

If you have ever had the chance to hear SFC Bowman speak, you know that we had an amazing motivational presentation. 

SFC Bowman is a double leg amputee and accomplished adventurer.  He continues to sky dive, scuba dive, hunt, run….the list is endless and truly uplifting.  His story continues to bring tears to my eyes and uplift me in ways that I continue to cherish. 

As I was listening to his presentation one thing stood out for me personally…..

“It is never too late to pursue or accomplish those things that you are afraid of.”

That statement could not be more true.

Pause….sip coffee….contemplate….continue.

What are you afraid of?  What have you put off accomplishing? 

Speaking from experience I can say that one of the things I continually put off was the completion of my Ph.D.  I sat around for years saying that “coulda woulda” thing without really taking action to complete anything! 

What was really going on was the fear that I would not be able to complete the requirements of obtaining my Ph.D. because of my age and the fact that I had been out of school for so long.  Going on, umm, 40ish,  I put it off and put if off until one day I came to realize that it didn’t matter how old I was.  I have always been driven and determined and I wasn’t going to let age get the best of me. 

Anywhoo….

Listening to SFC Bowman speak reminded me that I should always “land on target.”  No matter how, where or when, or what may try to stop me, I will always…

Land on Target!

Be Amazed and Inspired

An amazing speaker is planned to appear at HDQ 1 next Wednesday, Jan. 27 at 10:00 am in HDQ 1 cafeteria at an event hosted by the Veteran Military and Employees with disAbilities Resource Groups.   While anyone is welcome, seating is limited so encourage your folks to register early.

It’s not the Disability... It’s the Ability!

The Veteran/Military and Employees with disAbilities Resource Groups invite you to be amazed and inspired.  Dana Bowman, retired SFC, former member of the U.S. Army’s Golden Knights and double amputee speaks on behalf of veterans and those living with disabilities on Wed., Jan. 27, 10:00 am @ HDQ1. Seating is limited.  Read more.  

Rockie Lynne American Defenders Concert - Waukegan, IL

We would like to say thank you and all of the American Airlines Family for all you done for our Freedom Fighters and extend 200 comp tickets to American Airlines to the Rockie Lynne American Defenders concert January 23. I can arrange to have the tickets in Will Call under American Airlines. 
Anna from Wounded Heroes.

Jaycees Christmas Parade

The Veteran Military Employee Resource Group (VMERG) participated in the Jaycees Cary Christmas Parade on December 12. A group of 15 volunteers helped decorate a float adorned with an American Eagle RJ and an American Airlines jetliner that were surrounded by wrapped presents. Attached to the float were signs reminding those along the parade route that during this joyous season to take time to remember those fighting for our freedom. 

Our volunteers, some dressed in holiday costumes, walked along side the float passing out lollipops with cards reminding folks of our message and our blog. Despite the cold temperature, all enjoyed the event and we were especially proud to hear the crowds cheering, "We love American Airlines!". We challenged attendees on each side of the street to see which side could cheer the loudest in support of the troops. We look forward to next year's parade and your continued support for VMERG.

Take a moment to view http://www.vmerg.myphotoalbum.com for pictures of this event.  

2009 Rockford IL Air Fest

The ORD VMERG successfully participated in the Rockford IL Air Fest last year and helped secure both an AA and Eagle static display. The following YouTube link highlights events of the weekend which shows both the AA 737-800 and Eagle ERG145 landing - http://www.youtube.com/flyrfd2009 

A Special Moment in FLL

A little boy, Trace, traveled inbound early December and when he and his Mom landed, they approached Tony Sanchez, FLL CSM, and gave him a note that had a picture and a message from Trace. The message stated that Trace loved American Airlines and one day wanted to be a pilot for us. Trace is only 5 years old!!! Along with that message he gave us 5 McDonalds $5.00 gift cards. He wanted Tony to have one and give the other to soldiers traveling via FLL. We quickly got to work and began granting his wish and we took pictures of every soldier who received one of Trace’s gift cards.

On December 16th, Trace received a keepsake from us showing him what his kind thoughts had brought to FLL. He was met by the BSO office and given a ride on the scooter to the gate as his Mom, an Executive Platinum, watched in tears. An announcement was made at the boarding gate introducing Trace as one of AA's future pilots. Tony presented Trace with an AA lunchbox. Last but not least, we saluted him good-bye as he watched from the window. After the flight departed, we understand Trace and his Mom upon checking in at the counter gave another 5 McDonald gift cards to give to more soldiers. This truly was an amazing story for the FLL TEAAM.

Our message to Trace: The employees of American Airlines at Fort Lauderdale wanted to follow up on your Holiday Wishes. Your request to pass along the McDonalds gift certificate to soldiers flying out of our city brought us great joy during this holiday season. We have taken some pictures for you to save as a keepsake of your well thought kindness.

Trace you will definitely make an amazing Captain one day!!! We wish you a very special Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Your friends at American Airlines Fort Lauderdale

You can view the other photos on http://www.vmerg.myphotoalbum.com/