“Now boarding groups 1-4 to Dayton, Ohio” echoed the familiar words at the Charlotte Douglas International Airport. Several passengers made their way to the desk, awaited their respective beeps signifying boarding pass acceptance, and headed down the jetway. Already forewarned that the flight was packed, passengers entered the American Airlines E190 with some speed, trying to snag the overhead bins and claim their seats quickly.

And then things stopped. 

Huddled around row 10 or so, one passenger, convinced her bag would fit in the overhead, started to hold up the line. Adjusting the bag several ways, she tried to push it in, almost willing it to fit when a voice, laced with Southern hospitality and directness, came through the PA system.

“Ma’am, don’t do that. If you break the overhead, we cannot leave, and you will become the enemy of everyone on board. Let’s bring that bag back to the front and get that red tag on it.”

Who was this person, this voice of reason who was not going to let a bag size miscalculation impede an on-time departure? Heads darted up, and some chuckles could be heard. The woman, annoyed, headed for the front, halting traffic yet again to get her red tag.

Moments later, the traffic flow returned to normal. With the boarding process nearly complete, those seated could now get a better glimpse of the man behind the mic. Clad in traditional blue dress pants, a button-down shirt with the standard-issue airline nametag, tie tucked in to the shirt, with a crewcut and bold, black glasses, was the flight attendant. Clearly, this was not his first rodeo in the sky, and efficiency was definitely his MO. His name was Buford.

The audio of emergency procedures soon clicked on, and Buford modeled the mask and pointed to the exits with ease, even stopping to show a young traveler, around age 4, how the mask would drop down in an emergency. The fellow flight attendant seemed to look up to Buford, whose voice and dry humor proved a much-needed respite on the crowded flight.

Following a smooth takeoff and with the cruising altitude now set, the beverage service began with Buford managing the routine with unparalleled swiftness. Sleepy passengers who missed the service began to awake, asking for a snack or soda to which Buford said, “So now you want to participate, I see,” as a subtle smile peeked its way through his highly professional demeanor.

Those who travel frequently know that flight attendants can make or break an in-flight experience, but with Buford, passengers need not worry. This man makes sure they have what they need. But he does more than that – and he doesn’t even know it. He eases minds. He forces us to smile, if only for a minute, and he assures us through efficiency and grace that we can have confidence in his care. 

Thank you, Buford. You’ve found your float, and you continue to help others find theirs. Now if only we could rent you out to help us organize and manage our lives….