Chris and Amy are Pilots...

[Geyser Gazer]

Chris and Amy are Pilots, good friends of ours that happen to be married to each other. Before 9/11, they had a bright future and were very excited about their first home nearing completion. Tomorrow they were scheduled for final walk through and to officially close on the house. Instead, tomorrow they will break their contract, lose their earnest money, and disappoint the contractor they had befriended. Thier future is not so bright anymore. You see Chris happens to fly for American Airlines and Amy for United. They were both in the air when we were assaulted. Like all of us, they ache for the injured, the dead, and for the broken families left behind. Like all of us, there is a new sense of vulnerability not only for themselves but also for their crew and passengers. Unlike many of us, they know in their hearts that they are about to lose their jobs despite their years of training and consistent display of excellence during thier tour of duty. Despite this incredible stress, yesterday they voluntarily donned their uniforms and spent the day speaking to local school children as well as college flight students regarding their love of flying and their pride in being pilots. I ask that we face our future with the poise and courage that this couple has demonstrated. For those who can, let us not be shy about returning to the skies or about praying for the thousands like Chris and Amy who stand to lose so much.

 

[TinkerbellRules]

I, too, know people who work for the airlines (maintenance). One has 16yrs, not sure about the other. My friend said if he were to get laid off, the nation had a really big problem. It's so sad. We were going to build a new house, but now I'm afraid of the economy. I don't think I want to double our mortgage payment at this time. However, we might trade in our old van for a new one at 0%.

Your friends seem very sweet, especially to visit the schools. I'm sure they'll get tons of "safety" questions as well.

 

[flyingcircus]

Please let Chris and Amy know that they are in my thoughts and prayers. I'm a F/A with United, and I am so proud of all the professionalism our pilots have. I know the traveling public is scared, but I don't think anyone really knows the fear that the pilots and f/a's have also gone through. Their workplace has been violated. To step on that airplane the first time after Sept.11............... The grief that was tangible in the air, watching psgrs like you have never done before. To get on a 757 or 767 was terrifying. And yet people did go to work, and did do their job. Everyone I worked with on Sept 18 and 19th will be unemployed in the next few months. And to most, this was not a job- it was a career. A dream.

Chris and Amy, continue to keep your heads up, your spirits high. We will see you soon, doing what you were trained and love to do!! God Bless and take care!!!