Chance encounter with a Gold Star father

[bobhamlin]

This morning I had one of those humbling experiences that bring more perspective to the world. I sent the following letter to Southwest Airlines, hoping they will be able to forward the message.

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Hello,

The following is a letter of appreciation for one of your Chicago Midway employees. I had a very brief encounter this morning and would like to conclude an unfinished conversation. Today, 7May, I was waiting at the B-22 gate for the 8:55 flight to BWI, half-listening to the preboarding instructions being delivered by the gate attendant in the engaging manner that sets Southwest apart from other airlines. When I approached to present my boarding pass, the quick interaction left me so speechless that it took me a while to realize how I should have responded. By then it was too late.

As he scanned my pass, he noticed my hat and asked, “You belong to the Patriot Guard?” When I nodded yes, he said, “Thank you." Maybe I looked puzzled, because he added, "I’m a Gold Star father.”

Words failed me. First, few people recognize the Patriot Guard Riders (PGR) emblem. The PGR is a informal group, centered around motorcycles, that is dedicated to honoring those who place their lives in danger—and sometimes lose them—while serving our country. Secondly, he said thanks. I consider it a privilege to be able to show my respect. Third, a “Gold Star” parent carries overwhelming meaning. That parent has lost a child who had been serving the country. I was at a loss for a proper response and may have mumbled acknowledgement. I’m not sure. By the time, I realized what I should have done, I was most of the way down the passageway. I second-guessed that he might not want to make any scene during boarding, so I found my seat and began writing this. I didn’t even get his name.

Could you please locate the employee and make sure he gets to read this?

Thanks

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Sir,

Given the mission of the Patriot Guard, putting words to what I want to say is always the hardest part for me. Words seem so insignificant given what you have endured. Please believe that they come from the most sincere part of me.

I so much wanted to grasp your hand, look into your eyes and somehow communicate how sorry I am for your loss. I’m not sure if it helps, but there are 1000s like me who want you to remember your child with pride and fully understand the vast respect everyone of us have for those who risk their lives to make the world a better place. If it were physically possible, thousands of riders would have shown up in those sad days. It is our very humble attempt to share a family’s grief and to show our respect during a time when we can only imagine how much such support is necessary.

You represent Southwest Airline well.

Bob Hamlin

[Yellow Jacket]

I hope it gets to him.

Well said. I can never find the words for situations like that.

[ringadingh]

Very well said, I hope he gets to read it.

[chainsaw]

Way to go Bob.

[AlabamaNomadRider]

Bob, that was a wonderful thing you did. Be sure and let us know if you hear back from Southwest. I am honored to be a member of The Patriot Guard and it is because of you that I am a member.

[glwilson]

Very well written Bob... ;)

[ken]

Bob, I ,too, am a Patriot Guard rider although living in Germany I have never participated in an escort and I hope I never do...not because I wouldn't be proud to do so but because I don't want another military man or woman killed in the service of their country. I also wish there was no need for the Patriot Guard, but life is what it is.

I salute you for your participation in the Guard. Ken

PS - http://army.togetherweserved.com/ (are you signed up).