07-23-2007
01:19 PM
219 Loves
I was a wee lad of 23 when I first met both Herb and Colleen. They arrived on a shiny new -300 series and had with them a boat load of politicos and business types from the Houston area. Their mission was to show off just what SWA can do at airports like MDW and HOU if given a chance. I remember vividly meeting Colleen for the first time. We had tables set up at the end of a vacant concourse for social times and Colleen came to my table and introduced herself to me. Little did I know that the meeting was the first of many more. 8 years later I was a member of her own Culture Committee. Love and awe is all I can muster right now to describe the dedication and drive Colleen evokes in her daily work for all of us at Southwest Airlines.
I am 45 years old now and my gut went ill reading Colleen would be stepping back soon. And end of an era--- Yet when I thought it through-- Colleen would say to me- I was the next generation to keep the Culture alive. It will be with honour, love and with a personal loyalty only I will understand- will I move forward and continue our Tradition, our way of life.
Saying thanks seems so.....insignificant when we owe so much to Colleen and Herb. I am grateful I have a personal connection with both Herb and Colleen. My life has been enriched and challanged having been mentored by these folks.
It is healthy to have heroes in one's life. I am lucky I have two. What more can you say ? I love them both so very much.
Darrell J PIerson
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