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Alaska and Horizon Employees Assist Some 100 Veterans Flying to National Veterans' Wheelchair Games
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7/22/2009 6:30 p.m.
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Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air last week assisted more than 100 veterans who flew in and out of Spokane, Wash., for the 29th annual National Veterans' Wheelchair Games. Transporting the athletes, whose wheelchairs weighed up to 400 pounds, posed a logistical challenge for both airlines.
The games, which took place July 13-19, attracted more than 500 competitors. According to Veteran Affairs officials, it is the largest wheelchair sports event in the world, featuring competition in basketball, archery, wheelchair slalom and 14 other sports.
"Inflight PA announcements recognizing the athletes resulted in resounding cheers onboard," said Ray Prentice, director of customer advocacy.
On a typical flight, the Spokane airport team loaded up to 22 passengers requiring assistance and as many as 12 electric wheelchairs.
"When I visited with them, they enjoyed talking about which games they were competing in," Horizon Administrative Assistant Melodee St. Dennis-Asbury said. "Many were participating in as many as five or six events. They were upbeat, humorous, and appreciative of the assistance and friendliness of people in Spokane."
A company task force involving employees in several divisions at Alaska and Horizon began preparing for the event more than eight months ago.
On the administrative side, Horizon Reservation Agent Lemerie Delfin coordinated the veterans' bookings thought the Special Service Desk. Traci McHenry, director of customer operations at Alaska, changed the aircraft routing on key flights from Miami, Newark and Washington, D.C., so the athletes would not have to switch planes when connecting in Seattle.
For the more technical aspects, Jana Osborne, manager of customer relations at Horizon, put together kits for every airport that would serve the veterans. Horizon Station Supervisor Jolisa Darcy coordinated volunteers from both airlines, the local National Guard and Invacare — a wheelchair company.
"We put a lot into this event, and it was worth the inspiration we got from these veterans," said Dave Burris, Horizon customer services manager. "It's amazing to see what these veterans overcome day-to-day, and all with a great attitude that's contagious to be around."
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