Thursday, June 9, 2016

Cargo Airline Salutes Fallen US Heroes with Practical Help

10,000 Flags Shipped for Memorial Event
Shipping News Feature
US – This week American Airlines Cargo partnered with the nonprofit organisation Operation Honor our Heroes to respectfully transport 10,000 American flags for a Memorial Day event in Washington D.C. The flags, along with personalised memorial cards, were displayed near the National Mall in D.C. after the shipment, weighing in at over one tonne, had been shipped from Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW) airport to Washington Reagan (DCA) via an AA Boeing 757.

Nancy Glass founded Operation Honor our Heroes in 2007 in honour of Lt. Lonnie Alston, who was killed in action in France in 1944, and Master Sgt. Bob Horrigan, a member of the United States Delta Force, who was killed in action in Al Qaim, Iraq in 2005. All of the funds that the organisation raises are awarded to wounded veterans and their families. She commented:

"The cargo personnel of American Airlines ensured the flags for the fallen were transferred with dignity and honour. Personnel were extremely courteous and helpful and made a very difficult mission seamless and efficient. The overwhelming, emotional response of the public at the National Mall for the display reinforced our commitment and dedication to honoring our nation's fallen heroes. We will NEVER forget."

The flags will be returned to Austin from DCA, via DFW this week, to be used for future occasions nationwide and id Don Larney, General Manager, Cargo Operations – DFW commented:

"A team of DFW Cargo and Ramp professionals went above and beyond to ensure this shipment was handled with extreme care and closely monitored, transferred and loaded onto each flight We’re extremely proud to play a role in the transport of such a symbolic, momentous shipment." 

Photo: Courtesy of the Operation Honor our Heroes Facebook page.