Hmm. Quick question that's tangentially related to the thread...

I've only ever done tier point runs with hand luggage, but my wife would like to take a checked bag when she joins me. I was just reading something that concerns me which said that your bag has to be claimed at the first US airport you arrive at before being re-checked through to your final destination. Is that right? I think we've got plenty of time to do it (3.5 hours between flights), but I just wanted to be sure.

I assume no such worry on the way back?