Back in 2006 I was flying STL-ORD-SFO then connecting onto UA to fly back to PHX. I got to ORD and they were making announcements the flight was oversold. One of the offers was to fly back to STL then STL-SFO in time to making my connection. I jumped on it, then noticed the STL-SFO BP indicated the flight was very delayed (the departure time was over 2 hours after the boarding time). The agents assured me the flight had been delayed but no longer was and I would be fine.

I got to STL and found out the flight was delayed over 4 hours. I went to the Admirals Club but there was nothing they could do. However, the agents there were extremely kind to me, giving me drink coupons, moral support, apologies, trying to get me into First etc. They made a really ugly experience a lot better. And later, AA sent me some goodwill miles for the long delay.