Originally Posted by
JDiver
GAs are not known for their accuracy, hand-holding or sympathetic treatment of passengers for the most part, at least as far as reports (and experience) here. I'd never take an off-the-cuff remark from a GA as "take it to the bank" standard.
GA was in the wrong, OP lost out, but was dealt with fairly by AA; the crux was
getting there the same day after sleeping in and missing the originally scheduled flight, the OP got it.
Two wrongs, AA made it right.

Per the OP, he started heading to the gate after 20 minutes had elapsed. Kind of puts the time blame on the OP.
I am sure he feels everybody else should wait on him being late, but I am all with AA on this.