Originally Posted by BHMsilverDL
On my flight home from Munich today, Capt. Holloway celebrated his last flight with Delta after serving more than 25 years. His wife was on board also and the first officer made sure that all the paxs were aware of the significance of the day. Watching the crew take pictures out by the plane now made sense. Upon arrival in Atlanta, I saw the DL 75th anniv. 767-200 Spirit of Delta lined up for takeoff roll. I remember reading about this a few days ago...yes it is different, but I think that the livery signifies the intent. Back to the flight...as we rounded terminal E, the first officer announced to the paxs about the surprise awaiting us... a water cannon salute for Capt. Holloway! That was pretty cool. As we deplaned, I congratulated Capt. Holloway and wished him well in his retirment. I sensed a few sniffles from the cabin crew as well. It was a special day for the Delta family. Good Luck and best wishes, Capt. Holloway!
We've had that happen to us twice (sort of). Once we were on a flight from ATL to MAN (Manchester, UK) and it was the pilot's last outbound flight--his return 24 hours later was his final flight. His family was with him for the trip. Last year, on a flight back from SFO we had a pilot on his final flight, with his family, and they did the whole water spray salute. Also, the FAs put a crepe paper arcade up outside of the cockpit as we got near landing. And DAL reps were waiting at the gate with a plaque, etc.
I agree, very moving.