11 September

[Ukridge]

The FT carried a short piece this morning concerning the allowance by a judge for plaintiffs to seek further redress from the airlines, aircraft manufacturers, and even the operator of the Trade Center. Unfortunately there seems to be no surcease of such stories and I for one tend toward the cynical that those within the government responsible for the standards will never be questioned. Throughout the shout and tumult of this forum however, I would like to express to those associated with United that many around the world who travel have you in our thoughts this week.
Much discussion will be given concerning United's financial state pre-11 Sept. and the direction that United was taking. Although I understand the need for disspasionate post facto analysis I would rather limit my remarks in saying that you have suffered unconscionable tragedies and setbacks. Yet, you keep your spirits high and soldier on. Perhaps you have found your Wellington in Mr. Tilton - only time will tell. From the world of the traveler, no matter what nationality one claims, no matter what color passport one carries, or even if one agrees or disagrees with the politics, I can steadfastly say that we will not forget what you have endured. Your resoluteness and courage are a model for all.
The very best.

 

[novaqt]

Great avatar Ukridge. Bears a slight resemblance to Winston Churchill.

 

[Fly]

Thanks so much for your thoughts UK. To our brethren, American Airlines, you too have felt the pain. May we all live to see our great airlines shine again!

 

[Ukridge]

Thanks novaqt. One of the fellow forum regulars found it for me. Stems from the 1924 PG. Wodehouse classic with such profound literature as Ukridge's Dog College and Ukridge Rounds A Nasty Corner.

I am a firm believer that one of the best tutorials in leadership and management is the juxtapostiion of Napoleon and Wellington. For some reason I see parallels in the aviation industry. Napoleon of course was extraordinarily bright. His career was that of a meteor. Wellington however, proved the better man. Why? He was methodical and knew command from the regiment level up. It is possible that Tilton may be your Wellington. Although he did not grow "up" in the industry, he is methodical and is relying on planning instead of charm and brilliance. The charm (if you can call that repulsive maul charming) of Bethune or the coterie of lickspittles who populate the chattering class in your financial industry will in the end not stand up to solid management.
Wellington's single greatest asset was that he never stopped learning. He constantly took experience and built upon it for the next battle. If (and yes this is the subjunctive) Tilton can slowly but steadily work out of this morass then he can build upon the momentum. Merit and competence will ALWAYS carry the day.
Cheers

 

[novaqt]

Ukridge and Fly:

Thanks for your comments and support for the two great airlines affected by 9/11.

Take a good close look at the two pictures. Not only were they a wake up call to all americans, but in time, they will become a symbol to all americans of the loss of much of our freedoms as we enjoyed in the past. There isn't a religion out there, including the Muslim faith, that preaches killing of large groups of people by blowing yourself up. These terrorists are nothing more than a huge army of brained-washed murderers enabled by cell phones and computers. Bin Laden is to be likened to a Jim Jones, David Karesh and the Heavens Gate leader. The only difference is Bin Laden sends his killers out to murder and die for their glory and Jim Jones, David Karesh and the Heavens Gate leader killed their own followers without damage to the rest of the world, except the loss suffered by their followers' loved ones.

 

[UAL_TECH]

Here’s a site that I visit occasionally (since 9/11).
It helps me to keep my petty problems in perspective.

http://www.cantcryhardenough.com/

Take Care,
UAL_TECH