Passengers aboard an American Airlines flight were asked to remain seated for a few extra minutes as the captain announced that a very important passenger needed to leave the aircraft first. The passenger was a fallen American service member being returned home to their family.
A military escort accompanied the service member throughout the journey, while an honor guard and airline employees stood respectfully on the ground as the flag-draped casket was carried from the aircraft.
American Airlines has honor teams at several hubs across its network, consisting of veterans, active-duty military members and their families who help receive fallen service members and support their final journey home.