Nearly 10 years ago, Capt. Richard Rodriguez (Delta) casually published an article that he titled “Fallen Soldier” on his personal blog. He recounted a flight he piloted from Ontario, Calif., to Atlanta, Ga., with some honored guests—the remains of a U.S. soldier, his military escort, and his family—and the efforts the crews both on the ground and in the air put forth to ensure the needs of that soldier’s family were met with great respect.

“Fallen Soldier” went viral.

All year long, Air Line Pilots Association members make it a point to give back to their communities, and they make a strong finish through the December holiday season. Here are just a few examples of how ALPA pilots are giving back and spreading cheer this year.

ALPA pilot groups across the country received significant media attention this week after industry announcements were covered by the press.

In Atlanta, Delta Air Lines pilots sent a strong message to management with the opening of a strike center. Capt. John Malone, chairman of the Delta MEC, cautioned that “while we are fully committed and have dedicated all necessary resources to reach an agreement this summer, we are preparing for any eventuality allowed to us under the Railway Labor Act, including efforts from informational picketing to a legal strike.”

Meanwhile, in Hawaii, pilots and frontline employees at Hawaiian Airlines were awarded top honors by Skytrax for having the Best Airline Staff Service in North America this year. This award was particularly meaningful for these ALPA pilots, who are also nearing a possible strike after stalled negotiations.

Capt. Hoon Lee, chairman of the Hawaiian MEC, reiterated that, “This recognition is further proof of the value of frontline employees in the financial success of our airline. At a time when Hawaiian is experiencing historic success, there is no reason for management to continue to ignore the role that pilots play in ensuring that our airline continues to lead the industry.”

Visit www.alpa.org for further information on issues affecting today’s pilots.