AA HAS HONOR OF FLYING U.S. HEROES TO ORLANDO

AA's Flagship Freedom, a 757 signifying AA's commitment to supporting military service members, opened its doors to salutes and cheers as veterans and family members arrived for the Fifth Annual Road to Recovery Conference and Tribute that began Sunday, Dec. 7, in Orlando. The flight made it possible for nearly 140 soldiers and their family members from the Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio to attend the event coordinated by the Coalition to Salute America's Heroes (CSAH), an organization that helps wounded and disabled service members and their families rebuild their lives. Events at both departure and arrival gates included Tony Orlando, who performed his "Tie a Yellow Ribbon" signature hit. "What made the flight truly wonderful were the AA employees and crew who made sure these national heroes felt welcome and comfortable throughout the flight," said Captain Steve Blankenship, who manages Veterans initiatives. "It's an honor for all AA employees to be part of their healing process."