Supporting our Southwest Troops

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Mon, 04/09/2007 - 08:40 — Shelley Logan

We at the LUV airline are a patriotic bunch. We LUV our country; we give America the Freedom to fly; and we support our troops who fight for our country's many freedoms.

One way we express our LUV is by encouraging our Employees to wear red shirts on Fridays to show our support for the troops. In addition, our Internal Customer Care Team (this year's Heroes of the Heart!) sends LUV packages to all of our Employees or immediate family members who are called for military service. Many times, individual departments also keep in touch with Employees who have been called for military duty.

The attached photos show several of our Southwest Airlines Family Members who are currently serving overseas. Mike Clanton is the husband of my friend, Tina, who works as a Recruiter in the People & Leadership Development Department. Mike is in the Marine Corps Reserves and has been serving in northwest Iraq, near the Syrian border, since early November. Several departments have 'adopted' Mike during his deployment, and have sent goodies for him, as well as backpacks, school supplies and shoes for Iraqi children.

Another friend of mine who is currently serving overseas is a SWA Finance Department Employee named Charles Kitowski. His girlfriend, Berri, also a Southwest Employee, works in our Flight Operations Department as a Crew Accommodations Specialist. Charles left in January for Afghanistan and will be there until November. Here are a few photos that he sent to us recently. If you look closely at the photo titled "My Room," the photo in the calendar on his wall is of Charles and Berri from our trip to Seattle in August to pick up a new 737 (see Sunny's blog, "Can We Bottle That Smell?")

Another great story came to us from Bernadette Maldonado, a Baltimore-based Flight Attendant, who was also deployed to Afghanistan in January of this year. Shortly after arriving, she met Bill Mountcastle, another SWA Employee, who works as a BWI-based Pilot! They had not met each other before, but both found comfort in the fact that they had a Fellow SWA Employee serving alongside them! Attached are some photos that Bernadette sent to her friends at home.

I'm so grateful to all of these folks for serving our country, and I'm proud to call them my friends. It makes my heart happy to know that even though they are far away from home, they can feel the LUV we're sending their way.

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Comments

My hat goes off for all those who serve in the military at this time. Those who take the time to capture the hearts and mind of the Iraqi children are planting seeds of diplomacy that may be reaped later.

Mary — Mon, 04/09/2007 - 20:06

Southwest, you truly listen and go out of your way to adress concerns from passengers. I had an unusual experience from a flight due to bad weather. Unfortunately there were some issues but I wrote a letter of concern to Southwest and really just expressing my concerns because I feel that unless you let someone know about issues they can never improve. Well to everyone that has not flown Southwest, your missing a truly incredible organization that really wants to do the right thing. The airline of my choice will be Southwest. They do get it, they understand that people are important and when issues come up, go out of there way to correct things.In this day of modern business where one can feel like just a number, Southwest did respond and its just the "response" that lets you know that you have been heard and matter.
Southwest, thank you and each and everyone of the people in customer service and the management, you know what it takes to make a buisness work and you truly know how to take a service and put caring behind its name.

Timothy Candiano — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 02:19

Thank you for thinking of the troops that are serving overseas. Those pictures are inspiring, these average Americans who are willing to die for our country are the true heros of our time. You kind find these heros on the streets of Baghdad or in the mountains of Afghanistan or within the confines of an aircraft carrier. Despite what the media might say, Hollywood is not a place to look for heros. I have two friends of mine from our ship who are serving on the ground in Iraq and Afghanistan. I often think of them and the sacrifice that they are making. Freedom isn't free and i salute Southwest airlines for supporting us in these historic times.

USS BLOG BOY

francisco.delgado — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 07:16

Good post Tim.
I always make sure to write a letter after my flights to thank the employees and always get a response. Even an unexpected one as a box full of stuffed animals arrived when I wrote that we were expecting our second child in 2004.

Brian, how about a cake on the front page for Ding! boys 33rd birthday on April 16? ;-)
Ding! boy
Joe Friedmann

Joe Friedmann — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 11:10

Amen Francisco.
Our Heroes are the men and women on the ground, in the air, and on the sea who willingly put themselves in harm's way every day. One of my Coworkers' Reserve group was called to active duty, and he is in the middle of his tour in Iraq right now. We pray for him, and for all military personnel, to come home safe and come home soon.

Phil Willman — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 13:21

I had the privilege of attending the Easter Sunrise Service at the Arlington National Cemetery this past Sunday. It was truly moving to be surrounded by 300,000 men and women who had given everything to preserve our liberty. I really appreciate Southwest doing so much to support them.

Micah — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 14:16

Before i respond i wanted to say that as someone who is serving overseas i am getting tired of hollywood and certain lawmakers in Washington who on a continual basis slam what we are doing overseas. I realize that we in this country are entitled to speak freely, but enough is enough. It hurts the morale of the military. Now on to my responses

MICAH

I AM SURE THAT WAS A SIGHT TO SEE. I WISH I COULD HAVE BEEN THERE TO SEE IT.

PHIL,

I WILL KEEP YOUR CO-WORKER IN MY PRAYERS. HE IS DOING SUCH AN HONORABLE THING AND HIS REWARD WILL BE GREATER THEN ANYTHING WE COULD GIVE.

francisco.delgado — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 15:02

Shelley,
What a wonderful posting to keep us mindful of the sacrifices being made every day by men and women from this country who are serving overseas! How often do we all get up each morning and go about our normal daily routine without giving thought to our troops? We complain about rush hour traffic or long lines at the grocery store, but these outstanding Americans in uniform are facing people who want to kill them every moment of every day. We get to go to the comfort of our homes and turn on our color TVs without thanking the folks who won that freedom for us and who keep winning it on a daily basis.

Your post is also a wonderful reminder of just why the ticker symbol for Southwest is LUV. Our favorite airline is more than just a group of people who move passengers from point A to point B; it is a collection of people who care deeply about others and whose hearts are as big as the one painted on the side of the Heroes of the Heart 737! At the end of the day, the low fares, the great Employees, the timely service and the wonderful peanuts all pale in comparison to the fact that you also spread the Southwest-style of LUV to those who need an extra share of it! The biggest profit that is earned at the end of the year is not a monetary one -- it is the reward of knowing that your servant hearts have reached out and given something of yourselves.

Bravo and Brava for ALL of the Employees at Southwest!
Kim
External Blog Boy :)

Kim Seale — Tue, 04/10/2007 - 22:04

Here's a thought for Southwest: Why not show real courtesy and respect for military personnel travelling in uniform and allow them to board with the "A" group regardless of check-in time. On a recent flight I actually witnessed a flight attendant tell a soldier (in desert camo fatigues, no less) that if he wanted a better seat he "should have checked in sooner".

SJV — Wed, 04/11/2007 - 19:16

SJV,

I disagree with you, you should know that in the military we are taught to esteem others before ourselves. This means that the pre-boarders are usually the elderly, or the sick. I would rather allow them to board before me who is perfectlty healthy, or perhaps a mother who has young kids. If you want a good seat you have two options.. 1) you can go online 24 hours in advance and check in or 2) you can book a flight on another airline who despite you being military will still charge you an arm and a leg.. Southwest does a lot for the military.

USS BLOG BOY

francisco.delgado — Thu, 04/12/2007 - 08:55

Nice blog... as a mechanic out of the 325 AMXS ; 43rd AMU F-22 Crew Chief aircraft mechanic based out of panama city florida , and a proud member of the United States Air Force.. i want to thank southwest for what they do for this proud country..

Ivan Roberts — Mon, 04/16/2007 - 00:13

Great Blog Shelley! Thank-you for taking the time talk to about our Heroes here at Southwest! I love the pictures, especially the one of me on Charles' wall, LOL! Please keep all of them in your thoughts and prayers. Hurry Home!
We LUV you and miss you. Be careful!

Thanks again Shelley!

Berri Gentry — Mon, 04/16/2007 - 14:02

Help me Southwest. Your roundtrip prices have been very good, and we've taken advantage of them in the past. You just e-mailed me your latest great one-way prices between the southwest and northwest. So I tried to get my daughter in Arizona a great roundtrip airfare price between Phoenix and Spokane, WA, and, believe it or not, Priceline.Com could do better. What gives? That's never happened before when we've dealt exclusively with Southwest. You advertised $44 to $94 one-way trips, and then I find that I would have to pay well over $400 for her roundtrip. What's up?

Charles Barrows — Wed, 04/18/2007 - 23:30

[...] post on Southwest’s blog explains why the company has embraced the Red Fridays idea as a voluntary [...]

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[...] post on SouthwestÃ

Sister Toldjah » Southwest Airlines and “Red Fri — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 13:07

Another Reason to Fly Southwest...

You know, in addition to that $27 fare to Tampa you just got. Sweeeet.Southwest is getting behind the Red Friday campaign, which encourages Americans to wear red on Fridays to show their support for the troops.Why are they supporting it?This......

Mary Katharine Ham — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 13:39

Way to go, SWA!!! You have been our favorite airline for years and now we LUV you even more.

God bless those SWA employees and family members who are over there doing the hard work.

Jo Bond — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 14:28

[...] SouthWest Airlines urges its employees to support our troops (and their LUVed employees and family members serving overseas) by wearing red on Fridays. Important to note in this space, they wrote about it on their blog. [...]

the david all group | Blog Archive » SouthWest’s — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 15:56

Thank you for supporting our troops, Southwest! Iflyswa...!

Jerry Glenn — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 16:05

Another great reason to always fly Southwest Airlines. I'll be wearing something red on Fridays, too.

DRJ — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 19:14

Southwest is the best, I knew there was a reason I always flew with them.

PJ — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 21:15

[...] Airline of choice now… Southwest!!!! Supporting Our Southwest Troops is a MUST read. We at the LUV airline are a patriotic bunch. We [...]

Any Doubt NOW About What Side Dems Are On? at Conservative T — Wed, 04/25/2007 - 22:03

Does anyone know when SW will be posting the Thanksgiving Week Airfares? Looking to head out the Sunday before (11/18) and return the following Sunday (11/25 - if possible) or Monday (11/26).

Thanks,

TAD

Tommy D — Tue, 05/08/2007 - 17:38

TAD,

The tentative date is June 28th to open through January 16th.

Jedi Blog Master

Paco Cerda — Tue, 05/08/2007 - 23:14

THANK YOU

Tommy D — Fri, 05/11/2007 - 13:42

I will definitely fly with you if it is to a city that you service. As a veteran, it means a lot to those troops that your small step makes them feel good about being over there away from family. While I am not sure the story below is true, I still commend you!

Will you give this to my Daddy?

As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support "Red Fridays."

Last week I was in Atlanta , Georgia attending a conference. While I was in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed one of the greatest act's of patriotism I have ever seen.

Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camo's, as they began heading to their gate everyone (well almost everyone) was abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering. When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and cheered for it hit me. I'm not alone. I'm not the only red blooded American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their families.

Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school, work and home without fear or reprisal! .

Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our service men and women a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old, ran up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said "hi," the little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy for her. The young soldier, he didn't look any older than maybe 22 himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy.

Then suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

This was sent as an email. It has made me fly SWA whenever I can!

The mother of the little girl, who said her daughters name was Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her daughter, Courtney, missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up. When
this! temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one of the other servicemen pulled out a military looking walkie-talkie. They started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it. After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to
Courtney, bent down and said this to her, "I spoke to your daddy and he told me to give this to you." He then hugged this little girl that he had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying "your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and he is coming home very soon."

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young soldier stood to his feet he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6 feet away from this entire event unfolded.

As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around, their were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in one last act of selflessness, turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his cheek.

We need to remember everyday all of our soldiers and their families and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of

use2b2t2 — Thu, 05/17/2007 - 03:41

"Red Fridays" is a great idea. I am proud to join your employees in wearing red to support our troops. See you on the plane! May God protect our troops.

Dr. Ken — Fri, 05/18/2007 - 13:20

am wondering if Southwest will have a direct nonstop flight to Panama CityÃ

Rich — Fri, 06/01/2007 - 17:35

To use2b2t2,
In regards to your Red Fridays blog story - While I'm very moved by the story, I don't understand why the soldier didn't hand the communication device to the little girl so that she could hear her father's voice instead of the message being relayed... Can you explain?
Thanks.

Brontegal — Tue, 06/05/2007 - 19:13

God bless you guys! As an Alaska Airlines pilot it embarrasses me how detached my company is. I commend your patriotism, and your focus on what is important,"the troops"!

Tim Lefebvre — Wed, 06/06/2007 - 22:58

To Brontegal ~

Heeelllloooo - he didn't really talk to the dad. He pretended and told the little girl that! That was the whole point of the story. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!

Stephanie — Thu, 06/14/2007 - 05:44

I am glad to hear that Southwest is supporting the troops with the Red On Friday campaign. I love Southwest Airlines and try to fly them whenever possible. This only strengthens my feeling toward the Airline. Thanks for being a great American Company!

L. Layton — Thu, 06/14/2007 - 14:16

I believe this article references a Charles Kitowski from Katy, Texas. I doubt they are too many Charles Kitowskis (well, I do know of three). I grew up across from Charles (or Trey as we called him because he was Charles Kitowski III).

His parents found out yesterday that he was killed in Afghanistan. It is a very sad time for his family and his neighbors. I hadn't seen or talked to Trey in years, but it still really pained me to hear this news. He was someone I played with as a kid and looked up to as an adolescent.

May he be in all of our prayers.

Katy, Texas — Mon, 08/13/2007 - 20:22

Tell me this isn't so, just got todays war casualty report .... Is this the same Sgt. Charles B. Kitowski mentioned in last months article? My condolences to his family, his military collegue and his coworkers at Southwest... :*(

"The Department of Defense announced today the death of three soldiers who were supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. They died Aug. 12 in Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when an improvised explosive device detonated near their vehicle.

Killed were:

Sgt. 1st Class Jeffrey D. Kettle, 31, of Madill, Okla. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.

Staff Sgt. Jesse G. Clowers Jr., 27, of Herndon, Va. He was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Fort Bragg, N.C.

Sgt. Charles B. Kitowski III, 31, of Farmers Branch, Texas. He was assigned to the 345th Psychological Operations Company, 2nd Psychological Operations Group, U.S. Army Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command (Airborne), Fort Bragg, N.C."

Pixie — Mon, 08/13/2007 - 22:46

Charles was one of my college roommates and a dear friend. There are a number of us from the University of St. Thomas who lived together in the dorms and became life long friends. Everytime he came back to houston there was a get-together. Unfortunately I missed his farwell party before bootcamp.

It's amazing the circle of people what would come back together just because Charles was coming to town. He was truly loved.

We all received the news today through his parents about his death. I can't begin to describe the sadness which ALL of us are feeling.

God bless you Charles and thanks for all you have done for me, my children, and my country!!!!!!!

Jason

Jason Parker — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 03:25

I was just wondering if this was Charles Kitowski III and if he lived in farmers branch, texas.

Sgt. Kitowski of the 345th POC, passed away this last weekend from a road side bomb in Afganistan and my prayers are with him.

I serve in the same unit as him and it hurts when it hits so close to home.

Daniel — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 04:01

My most extreme and heart-felt condolences go out to all that knew Charles, family and friends. I did not know of Charles except through this website, but tears roll as I write this to see such a promising man meet such a tragic ending. I will say a prayer for all. I can only hope that over time that memories can help to ease the pain. God Bless.

Don Kessinger — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 06:47

Yes, unfortunately, this was "our" Charles who was killed Sunday in Afghanistan. We are all in shock and mourning, and will miss him dearly. Please send your thoughts and prayers to Charles' family and his girlfriend, Berri, who is also a Southwest Employee. Words cannot express how sad we are...Charles was truly one of the kindest, most genuine, thoughtful, and FUN people I had ever met. I am a better person for having known him, and our lives will never be the same. We LUV you and will miss you, Charles.

Shelley Logan — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 12:57

Charles is one of the most amazing, thoughtful, and honorable people I have ever had the pleasure to know. We went to college together and lived in the same apartment complex for a few years after graduating. He was there for me with a quick smile and kind word whenever i needed it. Charles was the kind of person that quickly enters your heart and stays there forever. As Jason said, he was truly loved by all.

God bless you Charles.

Lisa Bonario Miertschin — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 14:49

I am still in shock. Charles was an unbelieveable person, and truly irreplaceable. A fellow finance employee said to me "He and Berri could light up a room together" It was true. I will never forget his caring nature, kind heart, funny stories, and of course, his wonderful smile.
I will miss you very much, Charles. You were one of a kind.

Jennifer Gaudette — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 15:23

We will miss him.

Jen — Tue, 08/14/2007 - 18:07

These postings are the reason I always fly SWA. You guys and girls are truly a family. You treat your customers like family. I had the honor of meeting Trey nearly 17 years ago. I married his first cousin and I've always considered Trey my family. One couldn't help but feel that way after meeting him. I know he loved SWA and he also loved serving his country. Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers. Aunt Theresa (Trey's Mom), loved her "Trey Boy" just about more than any mother could ever love a child. Aunt Theresa, we love you and are praying for you. Berri, I know you are also hurting inside, but remember how strong Trey was and how strong he would want you to be. See ya'll Thurs or Fri

Tony Mills — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 00:59

Our hearts are heavy and sad. -Lori and Jeremy.

The Tompkins — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 01:34

Charles (and his roommate Wade) were two of the first friends I made at UST. Charles was kind, considerate, a good friend to everyone that knew him. He was a true gentleman; someone you could always depend on to get you out of a jam, just as you could always depend on him to lift your mood and your spirit if that is what the moment called for.

We are thankful to him for his service to our country, but even moreso for the impact he had on our lives through his friendship. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and closest friends who are deeply hurting from the painful loss brought by his passing.

Michelle — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 05:38

Charles, you will be remembered by all!

Vonnie Selzer — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 13:10

My prayers and thoughts are with all those who knew Charles. We cannot thank you enough for the sacrifice he has made. God Bless.

Margaret Ritchie — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 13:38

As much pain as I'm in right now, I want everyone to know what a great guy Charles is and that he truly lived and believed in the Southwest way. He has a Fun-Luving attitdue, Servants Heart and a Warrior Spirit. He loved his family, friends and Southwest Airlines. Here I am telling everyone the story he wanted to tell everyone after his mission on Friday.I want everyone to know when I talked to him last Saturday that he was in a great mood and so excited about coming home. I just never thought that would be the last time I heard his sweet, caring voice. He told me a couple of weeks ago, that I "eased his pain through this trying time".

I love you, Charles! I will never forget all the memories we had together. I will miss you, your smile, our laughs, our talks, and most of all just being with you. You made me feel at ease and made me a better person. We had so much fun together and were so silly. I just think about about all the things we did...and it just makes me laugh. I want you to know that, I would do anything to have you back with your family and I. This wasn't suppose to happen and I am so heartbroken. I am going to be with your family in Houston today, and just know that I am going to be strong for your mom. I know that's what you would want me to do. I am thinking about you and love you so much! I will never forget this saying,"God be with us together and apart". I will always remember what you told me last Christms "Smile your always on my mind".

If anyone from his unit (345) or over in Afghanistan is reading this, please find a way to get in contact with me. It would me everything to me. If
Clint Dickey is reading this I want to thank-you for being a good friend to Charles the past year. I remember him calling me and telling me that you two were always eating together, working out together, playing video games together, watching movies together, downloading music together,and talking about your girlfrineds together =) Charles also told me about how you went on leave to South Padre and how much fun you had with all your friends. He was looking forward to coming home in November. I really just want to thank-you from the bottom of my heart for being there with him and for him. If there's anyway you can get in contact with me, I would really like that. I have so many things I want to talk to you about.

I love you CHARROS and Happy Birthday!

Berri

Berri Gentry — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 13:56

The Kitowski family and Berri are all in my prayers. I will remember Charles as having a heart of gold and always sharing a cheerful smile every time you saw him. He truly reflected the SWA warrior spirit, fun loving attitude, and servants heart. He will be truly missed not only by us in finance but by anyone who ever had the privilege of meeting such an amazingly wonderful person. He will be remembered with much luv by all. -Rosalva

Rosalva Parraway — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 14:08

Paige and I want to express our deepest condolences to Mr. & Mrs. Kitowski, to Berri and to the entire Southwest Family. We have come to meet and know quite a few SWA employees and we have seen the closeness you all have for each other. We know this is a tremendous loss to all of you too. We met Charles a couple of times, through our Daughter and Son-in-Law, who both work at Headquarters, and a finer young man you would not find. One of the times we met him, our Daughter (Melody) advise me that he had either, just joined the Army, or was going to join. Being retired Army, I took pride in his selection and it was obvious that the Army was getting one of America's best. I can't begin to imagine the loss his Parents and Berri have sustained, but if it offers any comfort, two senior citizens in Arizona are happier that this young man touched their lives. God Bless Charles and all of you good people.

Carl Bandy — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 14:38

My condolences to Charles' family and Berri. To the rest of our heroes...thank you for your service and may God be with you all

Sherrie Maloney SWA FA — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 16:45

Dear Berri, and Kitowski Family,

You will all be in my thoughts and prayers.
Gods precious angels surround you and may
Gods comfort and strength be with you everyday.
Thank You Charles for serving in our Military.
God Bless You and God Bless America!!
Rest in Peace.

Donna Lavorata — Wed, 08/15/2007 - 17:22

Everything I try to say sounds so maudlin and doesn't begin to do him justice.

But the truth is there are a countless number of broken hearts tonight, mine and my husband's among them.

I know in my heart why he went, and I know in my heart why he fought. And I will carry that with me for the rest of my life. His fight will be mine.

He left his job, his family, his beautiful girlfriend and his friends to make a better world for those who had nothing, and he deserves the sleep of the just.

Rest in peace my brother and my true friend. I loved you and will love you always.

Berri, please accept my deepest grief for your loss. All his friends are yours too and if there is anything we can do for you, we'd be honored.

Julie Nguyen — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 06:55

Dear Berri, know that Gabi and I are thinking of you, "Charros-Cuchi Cuchi," and the Kitowski family. I recently lost my best friend and sometimes feel I'll never recover, but knowing that Charros is up there still protecting, I feel a little less pain. I met Charros on a Boeing trip where we both were Grand Prize winners, I now feel like a bigger winner for being part of not only the fun, but to have met Charros, and to see simple strangers bond so fast with eachother, the memories will forever be with me, as will you Charros "Happy Birthday" and God Bless you for being you and for touching so many people, you and mom are one of a kind.

Grace Vazquez — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 12:49

God Speed Charles and may peace go to your loved ones

David Harvey MDW Captain

David harvey — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 14:54

Words cannot express the sadness Kathleen and I have felt since we heard the news of Charles' passing. Our hearts are truly broken.

So many memories of You have flooded my mind in the last few days. From Southwest Christmas parties, to our get togethers with Peter and Jen at Mykes house, to the time you and Peter met Kath and I met at The Blaney Stone for drinks. There was the time Kath and I met you and Berri at Kels for lunch and then the last time we saw you at the going away party in the EO at Southwest. I always appreciated and enjoyed your company.

You were always there to to help out a friend in need. Remember the time you stayed on the phone with me to walk me step by step until I finally was able to install the compression fitting on our new dishwasher? I really appreciated your help.

Kathleen thinks of you as a brother and I think of you as a friend. Though You are no longer with us, You will always be thought of as a brother and a friend and will remain in our hearts until the day we are reunited.

May You rest in the arms of Gods Grace and Peace until we meet again.

George

George Baxter — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 16:38

Dear Barri -

My hearts and prayers are with you, the Kitowski family, and all of Charles' friends. I was in disbelief when I heard the saddened news. Charles was so dedicated in serving his Country. I will never forget the great trip to Boeing last year, we had so much FUN. The memories will always live on in our hearts. Barri, take care and be safe!

Happy Birthday Charros.......we will miss you!
Love, Lori Hall

Lori Hall — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 17:35

Dear Berri,
I am very sorry to hear about Charles. He was a very fun and loving person. Just from our Seattle trip, me and my mom fell in love with you guys. We all became a very close group. I start school soon and everyday I am going to pray for you and your family. You are in my prayers as well as all of my family's prayers. Remember the good times. Love you lots!
Gabi

Gabi Vazquez — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 22:15

Oh Charles..........

God Bless your sweet soul my dear friend. I keep thinking I see you up here in the hallways of headquarters. Then my hopes are crushed when the person walking towards me is not you. I still don't want to believe that this is real and that you are no longer with us on this earth. I will miss our talks at lunch and going out with you outside of work. I will miss your kindness towards animals and your love of nature. Iwill miss your willingness to give anyone a helping hand. I will miss your funny personality and the fact that you could laugh at yourself when you did something crazy. I will miss everything about you my friend. I keep hearing your voice and keep seeing images of your sweet smiling face that will be burned in my memory forever. You have always been such a great friend to me and such a wonderful person that I think of you as my brother. You are truly one of a kind who is irreplaceable. My heart is so very broken and I will miss you dearly.

I love you my friend and I cannot wait until You, Me, George and everyone who loved you are reunited again in heaven. I hope all of those that know and love you are able to find comfort knowing they will see you again soon.

Kat

Kathleen Baxter — Thu, 08/16/2007 - 23:37

Thank you, Charles for loving Berri. You have shown her how a man is to love a woman.You have given her yourself, love, respect, admiration and friendship. You have the most generous and kind heart, as we can tell by the out pouring of love and concern by your friends. Charles you have one huge circle of friends/Fans. CharlesÃ

Phil Gentry — Fri, 08/17/2007 - 03:26

I never had the pleasure to meet Charles, but I worked with his Aunt Mary Kitowski (now Mary Allison) when she was on the AUS ticket counter. Her husband Art was my Supervisor on the AUS Ramp in the mid 1980's.

As a Ride Captain with the Patriot Guard Riders/ Austin Region, I get alerts from the PGR with DoD casualty lists. Each time I read one, my heart sinks. On Monday when I saw one for a soldier named Kitowski I had a horrible feeling. Calls to the Allison's confirmed my fear- Charles was kin to Mary.

I've spoken to several people at the G.O. about Charles, and like his Aunt Mary he was loved and respected by all who knew him.

Today Charles will be coming home, according to the PGR website on a chartered Southwest flight from Dover, Delaware to HOU.

I will be among the Patriot Guard that will be Standing Silent, Tall and Proud as Charles arrives at HOU from his final journey early this afternoon.

To all who knew Charles, know that the Patriot Guard shares in your grief. We are saddened by his death, but we are so thankful that he lived.

Thank you, Charles. Your mission is done, may you rest in peace.

Andy Lough/ # 6770
Ramp Supervisor/ AUS

Andy Lough — Fri, 08/17/2007 - 11:28

I have spent the week trying to find the right words to express condolences for Charles' family, for Berri and for the rest of us that knew and loved Charles. All the words and thoughts I have are so inadequate to express our profound sense of loss and sadness at this time, and yet through the tears, we have incredible sense of pride in having known this wonderful man. It's been a very difficult week for all of us to say the least.

Charles was one of the 'good ones.' He was the kind of guy that when you got to know him, you knew he was going to be a friend for life. My only regret is that we didn't get to spend more time with him or to have known him longer, but I cherish the memory of every moment we all had together.

When my wife Melody and I were planning our wedding, we knew Charles had to be a part of it. He was more than a friend and co-worker, he was like our 'little brother.' He even joked with Melody about her being a 'mother-hen,' at times. I know he truly appreciated it.

I can't remember a time when Charles didn't have a smile on his face. I can still hear his laugh and see his smile. I can still hear in his voice the sense of pride he had when he spoke of joining the service and being allowed the honor of doing his duty to his country.

My wife and I have a wall at home that honors our family members that have served in the military. Among the photos are family members such as my great-grandfather and Melody's grandfather and father. Included in these photos is soon to be one of Charles Kitowski III.

We love ya man!

Dennis Wood — Fri, 08/17/2007 - 14:47

I would like to take a moment and say Ã

Kevin Loper — Fri, 08/17/2007 - 16:38

Berri-

My heart aches for you and for sweet Cayson. I wish I could be there with you all at the memorial service tomorrow, but I know you have people there who love you and support you.

I wish I had the chance to know Charles better before he was deployed.
What I remember is how much in love with you he seemed---and how your face lit up every time I asked how the two of you were doing all these past months.

As a fellow mommy, I know how monumental it was for you to let Charles into your heart...and into your sweet little boy's world, too. There must be so many questions in your mind, but I hope you know how many people love you and hold you in their prayers.

I honestly expected to read stories of heroism and bravery in this blog---about duty, honor and the sacirifice soldier's make each day. There was in deed some of that here. But what I walk away with is the outpouring of love that Charles gave in his 31 years in this world.

That's what I think makes him so special, Berri. That, in the end, perhaps our most important mission is not the job we had nor the rank we held...but it is the love and kindness we shared with others. And knowing the smile you always had on your face when you talked about him, I know his mission was complete.

Myke, Peter snd Jen....you are in my thoughts as you travel to Katy tomorrow. Please give Berri a huge hug from me.

Kelly Blue Kinkel
Southwest Airlines, Dallas, Texas

Kelly Blue Kinkel — Fri, 08/17/2007 - 20:41

Berri and the Kitowski Family, Our thoughts and Prayers are with you. God bless, and thanks to you all for giving the greatest sacrifice any family could give.
Maegan Conway, MHT CSA.

Maegan — Sat, 08/18/2007 - 18:56

I had the pleasure of meeting Charles just once, and he was such a delight to be around that I will never forget it. Thank you Charles for your sacrifice for my freedom. My thoughts and prayers go out to Berri and the Kitowski family.

Summer — Mon, 08/20/2007 - 12:39

Charles Kitowski was a beautiful soul. I was fortunate enough to meet him during college. I can honestly say that my life was never the same after meeting him...he definitely knew how to appreciate life and have fun. My thoughts and prayers go out to his entire family. Although I did not have the honor of meeting his fiancee, Berri, I know how happy he was to have found love. Berri - welcome to the UST family.

Becky Morales — Mon, 08/20/2007 - 17:57

I am an employee of SWA and am very proud of the company I work for. I see everyday the young men and women going to and from their duty stations. I was very proud to support the gifts we just sent over to Iraq. My son and daughter are both in the military. My daughter is in the Navy in Florida and my son is in the Army in Iraq. I had a hard time reading the blog about Charles. But I want you to know that you are in our hearts and prayers.
God speed to you all.

Nancy — Tue, 08/21/2007 - 13:04

SGT Charles Kitowski was Killed in Action 12 August 2007 Nangarhar Province, Afghanistan.

Rest in Peace Brother

Afghan Vet — Tue, 08/21/2007 - 17:28

Charles Kitowski would be so Proud of his SWA

SWA is truly a loving family. The very loving and compassionate hearts of SWAers were at BerriÃ

Phil — Wed, 08/29/2007 - 17:51

I love this! I was in Chicago this past weekend and I walked by a Southwest gate that was dedicated to the troops. It was full of pictures and flags. My boyfriend is currently serving in Iraq and I realy wanted to take pictures of it and send them to him but my camera was broken. Seeing this brought me to tears but it made me so happy and so proud at the same time.
Thanks Southwest!

Ej — Tue, 10/30/2007 - 15:55

Ej, I have photos for you! Can you please post your email address and Brian will be sure to get it to me (without making it visible publicly)?

Shelley Logan — Fri, 11/02/2007 - 14:12

Thanks to Southwest for support of our troops.

Joyce Reeves — Sun, 11/25/2007 - 14:15

I will be booking on Southwest anytime I can use them!

Thank you Southwest!

Gloria — Mon, 12/03/2007 - 16:51

Refer To my post May 16, 2007...
As I said not sure if true. The person was at SWA. What I think hapened was this....They played with a radio, and pretended they heard from girls father, and did the best thing they could do. The soldiers gave her a hug, said from Daddy. As a vet, those guys could not have had a com that would have reached her father. I just thought that it was a great thing to do. I believe this story is true (tho no proof). Soldeirs alays have a soft heart for children, I can see them doing it. And hey, I bet it was a gr8 moment for both the mom and daughter. I know they were missing Dad. Reassurance, I think was what they wanted to convey, and I bet they saw she was missing her daddy.

use2b2t2 — Wed, 12/12/2007 - 06:38

True or not lyou can all make it so:

Subject: Red Fridays

As a Company, Southwest Airlines is going to support 'Red Fridays.' And
here is why
(at the end of this story is an explanation of Red Friday)

Will you give this to my Daddy?

Last week I was in Atlanta, Georgia attending a conference. While I was
in the airport, returning home, I heard several people behind me
beginning to clap and cheer. I immediately turned around and witnessed
one of the greatest acts of patriotism I have ever seen.

Moving thru the terminal was a group of soldiers in their camos. As they
began heading to their gate, everyone (well almost everyone) was jumping
abruptly to their feet with their hands waving and cheering.

When I saw the soldiers, probably 30-40 of them, being applauded and
cheered for, it hit me I'm not alone. I'm not the only red-blooded
American who still loves this country and supports our troops and their
families.

Of course I immediately stopped and began clapping for these young
unsung heroes who are
putting their lives on the line everyday for us so we can go to school,
work and home without fear or reprisal.

Just when I thought I could not be more proud of my country or of our
service men and women, a young girl, not more than 6 or 7 years old, ran
up to one of the male soldiers. He kneeled down and said 'hi.'

The little girl then asked him if he would give something to her daddy
for her. The young soldier, who didn't look any older than maybe 22
himself, said he would try and what did she want to give to her daddy.
Suddenly the little girl grabbed the neck of this soldier, gave him the
biggest hug she could muster and then kissed him on the cheek.

The mother of the little girl, who said her daughter's name was
Courtney, told the young soldier that her husband was a Marine and had
been in Iraq for 11 months now. As the mom was explaining how much her
daughter Courtney missed her father, the young soldier began to tear up.

When this temporarily single mom was done explaining her situation, all
of the soldiers huddled together for a brief second. Then one of the
other servicemen pulled out a military-looking walkie-talkie. They
started playing with the device and talking back and forth on it.

After about 10-15 seconds of this, the young soldier walked back over to
Courtney, bent down and said this to her, 'I spoke to your daddy and he
told me to give this to you.' He then hugged this little girl that he
had just met and gave her a kiss on the cheek. He finished by saying
'your daddy told me to tell you that he loves you more than anything and
he is coming home very soon.'

The mom at this point was crying almost uncontrollably and as the young
soldier stood to his
feet, he saluted Courtney and her mom. I was standing no more than 6
feet away from this entire event.

As the soldiers began to leave, heading towards their gate, people
resumed their applause. As I stood there applauding and looked around,
there were very few dry eyes, including my own. That young soldier in
one last act of selflessness,
turned around and blew a kiss to Courtney with a tear rolling down his
cheek.

We need to remember, everyday, all of our soldiers and their families
and thank God for them and their sacrifices. At the end of the day, it's
good to be an American.

RED FRIDAYS ----- Very soon, you will see a great many people wearing
Red every Friday. The reason? Americans who support our troops used to
be called the 'silent majority'. We are no longer silent, and are
voicing our love for God, country and home in record breaking numbers.

We are not organized, boisterous or over-bearing. We get no liberal
media coverage on TV, to reflect our message or our opinions. Many
Americans, like you, me and all our friends, simply want to recognize
that the vast majority of America supports our troops.

Our idea of showing solidarity and support for our
troops with dignity and respect starts this Friday -and continues each
and every Friday until the troops all come home, sending a deafening
message that..
Every red-blooded American who supports our men and women afar will wear
something red.

By word of mouth, press, TV -- let's make the
United States on every Friday a sea of red much like a homecoming
football game in the bleachers.

If every one of us who loves this country will share this with
acquaintances, co-workers, friends, and family. It will not be long
before the USA is covered in RED and it will let our troops know the
once 'silent' majority is on their side more than ever; certainly more
than the media lets on.

The first thing a soldier says when asked 'What can we do to make things
better for you?' is...We need your support and your prayers.

Let's get the word out and lead with class and dignity, by example; and
wear something red every Friday.

Dennis Christian — Fri, 12/14/2007 - 16:09

I think it is wonderful and I believe the American people as a whole, will be very enthusiastic about supporting this. Our military is keeping us free and safe and we need to let them know, so it will contrast what the liberal media throws at them constantly. Great program, SWA - no wonder we love you so much.
Bette Topp

Bette Topp — Tue, 01/08/2008 - 04:21

You guys are the best! Thank you for thinking of the troops and being proud to let it be known you support them. Yeah! I luv Soutwest! I fly on SW whenever I can. ~Jo Arnold

Jo Arnold — Tue, 01/29/2008 - 19:59

Bette, this does not appear to be a sanctioned SWA program. The post leads off "true or not . . .". Its not a bad symbolic gesture but something more substantial may be more appreciated by our guys and gals in uniform. Perhaps a care package, some body armor and maybe even voting out the Macheveleans that sent them there and keeps them there under the pretence of lies. They deserve much better than that. Of course you can always blame that nasty liberal media. Media owned by liberal companies like General Electric. GE, a company so left-wing it changed Ronald Reagan from a Democrat to a right-wing Republican. We should all hang our heads in shame to listen to their crafty lies. And they hide all the good news. News so good that even Fox doesn't report it.

Our men and women in uniform deserve much more than lip service by a few do-gooders who think running around once a week in a red shirt somehow makes up for the kind of sacrifice military families endure. It doesn't. Wars are really easy to fight from the comfort of your living room. Especially so when its somebody elses kin getting shot at. Let's really show our support and bring our men and women home. Home is where their families need them, their communities need them and their country needs them. They've been away far too long.

Charlie Smith — Wed, 01/30/2008 - 02:00

My wife and I are leaving tomorrow, Red Friday on SW Airlines, and will be interested in seeing if we are with many other patriotic Americans traveling on Friday. We have bought a red bandana each and will wear it while flying to AZ and back next Friday.

Thank you for your support of our troops. God bless America.

Mike Darrah, Army brat and proud of it

Mike Darrah — Thu, 01/31/2008 - 19:50

[...] Until they come home… Red Fridays was started by military families in honor of loved ones overseas. This grassroots initiative of wearing red on Friday is now supported by major companies like Southwest Airlines. [...]

Until they come home… « — Fri, 03/14/2008 - 21:50

Thank you Southwest for helping others to voice their appreciation for our boys here and abroad. We are proud of them and the job they are doing and being asked to do.

Semper Fi

Perry — Tue, 03/25/2008 - 03:45

Thank you for showing your support ! I just heard about "wear red on friday's" and ordered my red support shirt ! I will wear red every friday from here on out until everyone is home where they belong. My daughters school wears red every friday, I thought it was for school support, until I talked to the principal and he told me that the red was for the school support, until red fridays came along and now the red is for support of the military. I can not express my appreciation enough for these brave souls that go and sacrifice everything they have. I found a site where you can get addresses for soldiers who do not receive any letters while being deployed. I can't wait to get home from work, and have my daughter sit down with me to write letters to them ! If anyone has any other things that I could possibly do to support our troops, please let me know.
Thank you.

Jennifer Haskett — Fri, 04/04/2008 - 00:40

Very touching story. The only problem is, the parade of soldiers thru an airport is a Busch Entertainment Corporation, promotion that is played at Seaworld, and all of the BEC parks.
The other problem, try booking a Southwest Airlines flight in or out of Atlanta, GA. There isn't any.

D. V — Tue, 04/15/2008 - 06:29

I have experienced first hand the patriotism and love of Southwest employees. In November 2007, I had to say "So long" to my son; who is a soldier and was being deployed to Iraq. There is nothing I could do to prepare myself for that day and that moment when I had to kiss him goodbye. I was sobbing uncontrollably in the Islip Airport, when the SW agent approached me with a pen and paper and said "write him a note. The pilot will give it to him. " She was so compassionate and I will always remember her kindness. Thank you for your support of our troops! They need to know that we have not forgotten them and that they are loved. God bless America and our troops around the world.

Maureen Stavrakoglou — Fri, 04/25/2008 - 01:36

Thank you for taking the time and effort to support our service people. They deserve every bit of support and respect we send them. I'm not really surprised, though. Many of the founding pilots for Southwest were Vietnam veterans. My cousin, Don Morris, was the 54th pilot hired by your company. When he came home after serving in Vietnam, he was hurt by the hostility many people expressed towards him. Southwest was a professional home and extended family for the rest of his life. Bless all of you for not letting our current service people suffer the isolation that Vietnam vets did!

Amy Lynn Rosen — Tue, 04/29/2008 - 06:25

It has been 10 months since my dear friend Charles' passing.

His death was not an end; it was only a beginning. We, his UST friends, have become closer. In his own way, he has inspired us to live more fully, to think of our actions, to see what a difference we can make in the world around us.

A few of us visited the University of St. Thomas in Houston yesterday, our alma mater, Charles' alma mater. He has a memorial tree and paver there as well. It is nice to see that, even after he has gone, he still brings us together and reminds us of the bond that holds us, no matter where we are or what we're doing.

Thank you, Charles. We miss you dearly...

Arlene Richard — Sun, 06/15/2008 - 09:04

I just happend to open this Blog and read about Charles' passing. My tears rolled down my face the whole time! I did not know him, but I do know a lot of young men and women, serving in Iraq as of this writing. In my current position I help find housing for military families here in Hawaii. I am amazed how brave and patriotic all of these young people are. I admire and respect these families, because of their service to our country we can enjoy our freedoms here.
Thank you and may you all have a safe trip back home! We DO appreciate your service and sacrifice! God Bless!
Gloria Almendares
Hawaii

Gloria — Wed, 06/18/2008 - 04:10

Thank you Southwest Airlines and all your employees for supporting our troops. Not only do you honor our troops, you honor the flying Americans with the only profitable and efficient airline. I will continue to fly with Southwest when you service my destination. God bless each and every one of you.

Ted Triche — Thu, 11/13/2008 - 12:59

We here at Ft. Bliss are extremely proud of our soldiers and all the soldiers serving. Because of you, we are free.

Raymond Medlock — Fri, 02/27/2009 - 03:17

Your airline is beyond wonderful, you exemplify what america is all about, which is becoming scarce these days. My son and his wife both work for Southwest, and I couldn'ty be more proud.
God bless all of you, keep up the image and great work!!

William Englehart — Wed, 03/25/2009 - 23:12

http://www.mrbucks.com/Awarenessweb.jpg

I have a company that is providing some of the awareness ribbons for this push.
Let me know if we can help any further.

Wm Holden — Sat, 04/11/2009 - 15:18

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