It doesn't really fit the original question, because I'm a Delta Million Miler and, therefore, Lifetime Silver Medallion, but my wife isn't. Not too long ago, we were waiting for our DL (almost left that out, but who else is there?) coach seats from ATL to DCA when the agent called me to the podium. "Would you like to upgrade?" "Sure." "We'll just use one of your segment upgrades for the two of you." The guy has probably since been fired for outstanding positive customer relations. Not too many Delta folks like that any more.
Sometimes, it just happens.
Phil