Above is my Daddy who taught me to keep things in order to accomplish a task. Tasks were done with strict discipline. Obedience to the task was demanded and expected. As a public school teacher, I found that students who had not learned to internalize discipline could not focus and accomplish a goal. I am quoting a cowboy friend who worked for Daddy from time to time, "Al would tell me what he wanted to get done. He would than tell me what he was going to do, told me what I was going to do and said, "Now be careful!" As a windmiller for a large ranch, Al took his job very seriously. It could be a dangerous venture, getting up the windmill tower to repair whatever was needed. Thank you Daddy for being an example of hard and dedicated work ethics. Mother used to say, "You are just like your Daddy," for me that was a compliment. American Airlines set that expectation for the Stewardess Corp.
Above is my Mother for whom I am grateful for her intuitive soul, hard work and good judgment. She taught me to think outside the box. "Sister, if you can not do it one way, you can do it another." "Think before you act." "Think of others before yourself." "Do your best!" Thank you dear Mother for being you and helping me be me. Neither of us was perfect, but we hung in there and kept trying until something worked. Life is hard work! It is worth it!
Honestly, I had the foundation for learning and applying the skills needed for Emergency Training.
I am amazed at the metamorphic process from caterpillar to butterfly. What does this have to do with me and Emergency Training? The caterpillar was evolving step by step. As I ponder my training as a stewardess and the "me" who emerged from that training during the years of my flying experience, it was all good. For successfully handling of any emergency, it was important to know what to do on an automatic level so I could depend on my knowledge and skill. Wow! I needed to learn sooo much. And good ole American Airlines picked me, ArgieHoskins, because they knew that I could do it! Now to get rid of the self doubts and have confident inside of me. The task ahead was to learn what I needed to know on an automatic level, no guess work! Along the way something really great happened, I found in me, a new me, not only did I know the procedures, but I had good judgment. You can't learn everything you need to know by the book. There is no substitute for good judgment. Always have in my mind plan "A" and plan "B" for this is survival. Later as a school teacher, we had workshops on "thinking outside the box." I realized that I had been thinking outside the box for year and years.
My first Emergency Training was focused on DC-6, DC-6B, DC-6 Coach, DC-7, DC-7 Coach, DC-7 Dual Service, and the Convair. The Emergency Equipment: EXITS and how to open the window exits from inside and in some cases the outside of the aircraft. ROPES were located in exit windows and doors of certain aircraft. EVACUATION SLIDES were stored on the cabin doors. The Lounge exit had a slide. It was fun to practice our skills while overcoming fear. FIRE EXTINGUISHERS were located in various locations on the several aircraft. OXYGEN cylinder, outlets, walk-around bottles were strategically placed. FLASHLIGHTS were on some aircraft. EMERGENCY LIGHTS replaced flashlights on all aircraft. Another item that we always checked when we boarded was the SERVICE KIT which contained First Aid Equipment. We were trained to remember to take the SERVICE KIT with us if we evacuated. We didn't have the theme bandaides that children plaster all over them these days. That would have been an interesting demand. We had a FIRE AXE located on the forward side of cockpit door on all aircraft. FIRE DETECTORS AND EXTINGUISHING EQUIPMENT and FLOTATION SEAT CUSHIONS were on some aircraft.
This is a statement from my American Airlines Manual: "The successful handling of any emergency aboard an aircraft depends to a large degree on you and your knowledge. There is never an emergency in which there isn't something you can do to help. Safe procedures require a cool head. The ability to think straight and operate calmly requires knowledge of what to do. There is no substitute for good judgment. The outline that follows assigns specific Stewardess responsibilities on the DC-6/DC-7 and the Convair. If, on the DC-6/DC-7 an emergency occurs and the specific location of the First Stewardess at the time makes it difficult or time consuming to accomplish her duties as outlined, then good judgment should dictate that she carry out the Second Stewardess' duties and vice -versa. The Second Stewardess under such conditions should take her cue from the First Stewardess.
Now the task for me was to know what responsibilities were First Stewardess and Second Stewardess because I felt that I could do both at the same time. That has been my challenge all my life; I think that I can do it all. I can't! I must be in charge of my stewardship and others must be committed to their stewardship. In case of an emergency, I must know what I can do and do it! Don't expect someone else or the government to solve the problems that I must handle.
More later! And oh yes, Have a Happy Heart!
And this is the more later! This morning I thought of a couple more things that came to mind. I know that when I have time to write from my journal; I will have more to say. For now as I remember, the kind of emergency situations that I was trained for back in the 1950's were varied. BELLY LANDING when the gear would not come down was not very different than a normal landing. However there was the possibility of the shock of the hard landing of the tail and even more hard the landing of the nose. What was comforting was that we would be near the ground for easy departure. I remember the advice was to inform the passengers to relieve their bladders so that on impact the bladder would not burst. I never found that in the manual, but thought it was a good idea. Along with that idea was the use of the pillows and position of the body on impact. NOSE WHEEL UP MAIN GEAR DOWN will position the aircraft in a nose down, tail up! This position business of landing was hard for me because of the sequencing challenge in my brain. Up, down, down up! Concepts had to be over learned! * KNOW YOUR PROCEDURES * USE GOOD JUDGMENT * KEEP COOL
One evening the crew was dead heading a plane back to LA. An engine caught on fire! We made an emergency landing. I was not one bit concerned. The flying crew knew what to do!
The following was not an emergency, however it could have been. After having had an extended layover in New York because of a wicked snow storm, the cold, continuing gray skies, and weather conditions, we loaded our passengers in the hangar as we continued to de-ice. Little did we know that inspite of the working snow plows the runway conditions were still icy. The noises on take off didn't seem that much different from other icy, snowy takeoffs. When we deplaned in LA, the crew was talking and taking notes as they studied the rolled up metal on the belly of the plane. I suppose this rolled up metal on the fuselage was caused by ice on the runway. I have always wanted to see that report.
One evening flying between El Paso and Douglas, the pilot lower the plane very quickly. He reported that he had picked up an unidentified object in our path. He was not asleep at the wheel. Speaking of such! I flew with a flight engineer that shared that he believed in UFOs because of the things that he had observered while flying. Interesting!
A near miss! On take off from New York and again during the winter, we almost did not make it over a fence at the end of the runway and into the water we could have gone. BUT the crew did some very quick and skilled flying to leap us over the fence. I loved flying with those old World War II pilots. They were so great! From the props to the jets, they were the greatest!!!!! I was afraid to fly before I became a stewardess. Just knowing the skill of the men at the wheel was a comfort. I am now married to an old pilot from World War II. When we are fly we hear every sound and movement of the aircraft. We have traveled on many airlines. And you know my choice of carriers.
In my opinion, American Airline is the best for their concern and training for Emergency Training. I would do it all over again for American.
American Airlines Application requirements 1957 T0 view larger image: * Click on the above picture *Find the selection *Click and magnify
These little bits of paper can paint a history of what it meant to be a stewardess during my time with American Airlines. Read and picture what we looked like and how we acted. I am telling you, I could hardly wait to dress in that neat, tailored uniform with the cap on my head, putting on my best smile to be of service to the air traveling population. Knowing that passengers would dress up and put their best foot forward to receive "first class service" be it in the front or rear of the plane. It was an exciting match of colorful personalities. I feel I was privileged to have been serving the public in such a special way during this period of history.
I still have my two name plates. By now you know that I am very sentimental. Not only were we trained to know our passenger's names, but right there in front of the plane for the passengers to see were our names. "What does the A. stand for?" Many times that question was asked. "Argie"
Passenger letters were always rewarding for me because they validated me as a contributor. This was one of our family's core values. "Not what you get, but what you give, makes you happy." I grew up knowing that the footsteps of my life would be to give, not to take. I am saddened when my brothers and sisters of this earth's experience have not learned to embrace and appreciate this valuable lesson. "Look outward for joy, not inward to be satisfied." (ArgieHoskins) The most glorious picture is seeing the hands of giving not taking. Again, letters from my passengers told me that I was doing a pretty good job of giving. Thank you dear passengers.
Stewardess ArgieHoskins' passenger letter from Clara M. Herring Flight 561 July 16th 1957 Cincinnati to Indianapolis
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I kept this letter because I remember Clara Herring. She was excited to be aboard AA. My life has now turned into her age of the year 1957. How generous of her to write a note expressing her thanks for the service she enjoyed. My memory now enjoys her as she warmed my heart in July of 1957. This was one of my first passenger letters.
ArgieHoskins' check ride by stewardess supervisor Peggy Warren August 3, 1957
Note the lack of excellent performance. That came later! "Anything worth having is worth working for." I was so terrified of the supervisors until I had been flying about two years and they started telling me that I would be a really fine supervisor. Perhaps I could make a career with American Airlines. I started thinking in that direction. Betty was the first one to give me the idea. I liked it. That is how I viewed myself. "As a man thinketh, so is he."
Passenger letter from Thomas G. Stanley San Diego October 12, 1957
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Passenger Thomas Stanley Back in those days, I was either naive or trusted everyone, because as I go through my memory items, I find that I gave out my address with regularity. At the time, I am not sure that it was a wise decision and certainly not now. The world was a safer place to live and I felt that I could discern the intent of the heart. Thomas Stanley was a good "kid" and needed a friendly smile.
Harry Fried, Christian Business Men's Committee member, was on my flight. October 1957 I remember the energy with which this dear man explained the organization. Good is Good!
In Memory of Our Students Who Gave Their Lives in the Service of Their Country
The World War I service flag honoring all First District Normal school students who had served in the armed forces was dedicated by President Eugene Fair on July 18, 1918, and a Soldiers Memorial Fund was established to create some type of permanent memorial to those who had died. This memorial eventually took the form of two bronze plaques which were completed and installed February 1928; one contained the text of Fair’s 1918 speech and the other the list of the honorees.
A list of the Northeast Missouri State students who lost their lives and President Walter Ryle’s 1942 service flag dedication address appear on the two World War II memorial plaques. They were unveiled by four men and women representing student veterans at an Armistice Day program in Kirk Auditorium, November 11, 1948. Brigadier General Willard W Irvine’s dedicatory address was followed by taps and a 3-volley gun salute by MacDougall-Lowe American Legion Post No 20.
Dedication of the Korean War memorial was held in Kirk Auditorium on Veterans Day, Nov 11 1957. Lt Col Robert L McKinney, Assistant to the President, gave the address and Janet Howell, daughter of Capt Robert Newland Howell Jr, unveiled the plaque on which her father’s name appears. The ceremony closed with taps and a 3-volley gun salute by MacDougall-Lowe American Legion Post No 20.
The Viet Nam War memorial plaque, sponsored by the campus Veterans’ Club, was dedicated in a solemn Veterans Day ceremony on the Quad, Nov 11, 1980. Club President Sam Guzzo and University President Charles McClain unveiled the plaque and Bill Elmore, President of the National Organization of Concerned Veterans, gave the dedicatory address.
Letter from The White House regarding air safety. This is in response to my letter to them. One day in route between Tucson and LA, a military jet invaded our commercial space. The crew was concerned, as were many passengers, soooo I wrote a letter to The White House.
Passenger Robert (Bob) Cawley Sr., director and producer for NBC-TV became a friend of Argie's brother C.L. C.L. was going to acting school in Hollywood. That is another story to tell. After I had Bob on my flight, he started helping C.L. with his pursue to get into pictures. The long and the short of it is, that after C.L. joined the Army, Four Star Playhouse sent him an invitation for a contract in a series. Too late!
C.L. Hoskins Charles Leslie Hoskins Vanity Fair publication Attending Columbia acting school where Bob Cawley was a teacher.
Bob asked me if I would like to take some acting classes. I would have very much liked to have taken classes, however my plate was full of other things at the time. Acting is what I have done all my life. I am what my heart desires to be, "Act out your life in a way that your footsteps will take you where life will be remembered as good." We have a choice where our slippas will take us.
Dr. Lamsa sent me a small book of the 23rd Pslams. Dr. Lamsa told me as he studied the Book of Mormon, he felt it to be a legitimate writing. He was the technical advisor on the film, The Big Fisherman"
Lamsa Web site: Dr. George Lamsa was a native Assyrian who was shocked to find that most Christians in the West used a Greek-based Bible. To Dr. George M. Lamsa, and many other Eastern Christians, the Aramaic Bible, is the only Bible. He worked on translating the Aramaic Peshitta into English, resulting in the Lamsa Bible.
Letter from William Fowler American Airlines Bill Phillips American Airlines
Stewardesses Claire Bullock and Argie Hoskins were on the "Stop Arthritis Telethon." Will Fowler and Bill Phillips of AA wrote to Supervisor Jeanne Folk thanking her for our participation.
My journal entry of Sunday, February 15, 1959 "Our friend Bob Cawley said that all of the NBC control unit in his particular studio was watching. There were lots of people on the program such as Jane Russell, Jerry Lewis, Lucille Ball, Billy Eckstein, John Smith (actor in The High and Mighty), Kathy Nolan(Actress), Terry Moore,(Actress), the M.C., Uncle Miltie Berle. Oh yes, should I forget, Claire Bullock and Argie Hoskins, American Airline stewardesses.
While speaking of public relations, I accepted the invitation to represent American on many occasions such as other telethons, Rotary Club meetings, and etc.
Peter J. Pitchess, the Los Angeles County sheriff who transformed the nation’s largest Sheriff’s Department from a rustic cowboy agency into a modern professional law enforcement organization, died Sunday at his home in Newport Beach. He was 87.
Subject: Landing Gear - Hydraulic System Air Conditioning Water Injection Pumps Gauges, Instruments - Cockpit Panel Cabin Items Coffee Maker Buffet Equipment Buffet Service Door Buffet Air Vents Chimes Seats
Letter from Ralph Radcliffe Director - Stewardess Service
File Format: PDF/Adobe Acrobat - View as HTML Ralph Radcliffe 1957-1958. • Classification: air transportation. • Worked for 21 years as a sales representative for American Airlines in Cincinnati, ... 4rotary100.org/LinkClick.aspx?fileticket=q%2FE%2FEX6UJ3Y%3D&tabid=141&mid=702 - Similar pages -
C. R. Smith described it as "the most reliable engine we have ever operated." When you consider the overall performance, and passenger reaction to our new airplanes, plus the fact that there does not seem to be any problems that are not yielding to trouble-shooting, the outlook is solidly good.
On Sundays after flying my way to another city, I was off and running to Church where ever I happened to be on a layover. Following are some of the places that I visited now and again. As I reminisce, it is fun to take my mind from place to place. This morning I found another journal. When I have time. . . more to write.
Westwood Second Ward This is the church I attended while living in Los Angeles. The chapel is located on the same plot of ground that the Los Angeles Temple is located. The congregation was friendly and I made a lot of good friends at church. Some of which I still enjoy the relationships. I was in the same Sunday School class with Loraine Day. She was a wonderful sister in the church.
Born La Raine Johnson[3] in Roosevelt, Utah, she was a descendant of a prominent Mormon pioneer leader, and moved with her family from Utah to California, where she began her acting career with the Long Beach Players.
In 1937 she debuted onscreen in a bit part in Stella Dallas; shortly afterwards she won lead roles in several George O'Brien westerns at RKO, in which she was billed as "Laraine Hays" and then Laraine Johnson.
In 1939 she signed with MGM, going on to become popular and well-known (billed as Laraine Day) as "Nurse Mary Lamont", the title character's fiancee in a string of seven "Dr. Kildare" movies beginning with Calling Dr. Kildare (1939), with Lew Ayres in the title role.
She was married to Ray Hendricks from 1942 to 1947, then to the baseball manager Leo Durocher from 1947 to 1960, while she would sometimes be referred to as "the first lady of baseball". While Durocher was managing the New York Giants, Day wrote a book with the punning title Day With the Giants (1952).
Shortly after her divorce from Durocher, Day married television producer Michael Grilikhes in 1960. She and Grilikhes had two daughters, Dana (b. 1962) and Gigi (b. 1964). After their births, Day rarely appeared in films, and only occasionally appeared on TV, portraying matronly types. Day was devoted to the raising of her two daughters, and largely retired from film and television to spend time with her family and be active in her church, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormons).
Hollywood Walk of Fame
For her contribution to the motion picture industry, Laraine Day has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 6676 Hollywood Blvd.
Death
Laraine Day died on November 10, 2007 in Ivins, Utah, aged 87, at the home of her daughter, Gigi Bell, according to her publicist, Dale Olson. Day had moved back to her native Utah in March 2007 following the death of her third husband. According to IMDb the cause of death was cancer, but there is no other evidence to support this. Most other sources have cited "natural causes".[citation needed]
ArgieHoskins with long hair and brother C.L. Hoskins before Stewardess School, April 1957.
Leaving home, ArgieHoskins and brother C.L. Hoskins picked up their suit cases and went their separate ways, "sister" went one way and "brother" another into the unknown world away from rattlesnakes, horned toads, the warmth of the gas heater, Mama's home cooking with steaks from range fed cattle, cakes from scratch, and home made ice cream. There in Animas Valley, New Mexico, once known as home and one time without electricity, five small rooms, two adobe, and raw milk to drink, my restless spirit said, "Go." It was hard for me to leave, but I wanted to go! And step, by step made my way to the big city. "Chicago, Chicago, and many people's hometown."
I was living with my Aunt Boo, Uncle Bill, Cousins Effie and Freddie in El Paso, Texas and working for El Paso Natural Gas Company. To become a stewardess, "Now, that is a novel idea." However, I was afraid of flying and what more afraid of heights. Having always had a dizziness challenge, the dream was "Pie in the sky," my mother would say.
After my interview with American, I sat in the terminal at Amon Carter field waiting for my flight and thinking, "Well, I did look sorta cute in the cap he had me try on as I looked in a mirror and I really do like to visit with people." I prayed to the Heavens above that whatever happened would be for the best.
My hands still tremble with excitement! Some would say that it is old age, but I know that the tears of joy are not old age as I ponder this telegram. This moment changed my life.
My family was so excited when they picked me up at the airport! This would be the airport that I most frequently flew in and out of, either as a destination or a stop along the way. On that evening, I did not know that I would be thrilled by the glorious south west sunsets, the powerful thunder storms that would rock the plane, this way and that, as the route took us through huge puffy clouds and sudden drops in attitude. In the southern part of New Mexico is where I would learn that the power of nature is amazingly stated in the world of flying. New Mexico, the Land of Enchantment, graced with beauty both on the land and in the sky. My home!
Little did I know that I was about to embark on a journey that would try my brains and challenge my emotions while learning a ton about me.
American Airlines' Chicago hangar at Midway Airport housed the Stewardess College when I attended the school in April and May of 1957. Later that same year, the world's first facility for flight attendant training, the American Airlines Stewardess College was built in Dallas/Fort Worth. Before this outstanding event, the College was in a hangar at the Midway field. Chicago Midway International was located on the city's southwest side, eight miles from Chicago's Loop. It was in the area of 55th Street and Cicero Avenue. This was the setting for Alfred Hitchcock's "North by Northwest" starring Cary Grant. Incidental, I had both of these gentlemen on flights. Yes, this is where I (Argie) went to school.
These pretty faces were the faces of tired, enthusiastic and very smart young ladies who were pushed and pushed again to learn all that was required to be the "best of the best" American Airline stewardesses. What a privilege. Class 57-6 1957
Later as my first domicile, I lived on Wrightwood Ave. north of the Loop. From Wrightwood Avenue, I took the trolley car to catch my plane. I loved getting on the trolley in front of a Chinese laundry where interesting people came for conversation. Interesting for me because this was such a different world than southern New Mexico.
Becoming a stewardess, was not an easy experience for me. I had never experienced the rigors of education as I encountered in that hanger. It was hard, learning all the Stewardess Manual stuff like: Administrative Procedures, Basic Procedures, Restrictions and Irregularities, Convair Procedures, DC-6 Procedures, DC-7 Procedures and later 707 Boeing Jet Procedures. Along with all this, there was a section on Special Procedures, Emergency Procedures, Oxygen, Ill, and Injured, Forms and Reports and of course the Reference Material. Each of these topics could find a book written about the emotional trauma of learning well, fast and applying the concepts in a professional manner. Step by step, day by day, I knew that I must graduate from the school on the south side of Chicago.
From the rural area of southern New Mexico, I well remember the first time walking down the streets of Chicago. Where on earth were the open spaces of Animas Valley and Cotton City? Going to church, riding the subway and the elevated rail, was an awesome awakening. I saw the laundry hanging outside apartments as we fly by the flats on the elevated "L" train. I will never forget the face of a child looking out a window as our eyes met, never to meet again, thinking, "Oh, I am so glad that I grew up in southwestern New Mexico. "Thank you Mother and Daddy for the life of "Don't Fence me in." To this day, I can feel the emotions of that brief moment.
One Sunday riding back to the hangar from church, looking out the window of the subway, the "L", and then the bus, I missed the exit where I was supposed to get off. The bus driver announced, "End of line." It was dark and I had no idea where I was. The driver was helpful enough to direct me to a bar around the corner for a phone. The bar man said, "Use the phone outside." I had no idea who to call, where to go, or what to do and can you believe very little money. All I knew was that I was on the south side of Chicago and that my parents would be worried if they knew anything about me being on the south side of Chicago, at night! On a very low level of awareness I knew of gangs. To make things worse, the day was a cold April day and night to which one of my new friends at the hangar had responded by insisting that I borrow her fur coat or fur looking full length coat. And here I stood in the cold night in front of a bar not knowing what to do. No transportation to the airport hangar, no money for a taxi, and young and pretty in a fur coat. You guessed it! I prayed in my Catholic friend's fur coat. A car stopped with several people in it. I couldn't tell but it looked somewhat like a family. Thanks to above, they took me to the airport and dropped me off without engaging in much conversation. Wherever you are, THANK YOU!
Back to my training in the hangar.
I did not spend every minute in the hangar because I had to learn to look "pretty" and for me it was learning how to get from point A to point B and back, again. Me, with all my sequencing challenges, that was not easy! One of the places that I had to figure out was how to get to the tailor for uniform fittings. I will never forget that kind man, Colangelo, when phone numbers were easy for me to remember.
Take a look at the phone number. Yes, life was more simple. Mr. Colangelo was a kind man and very talented as a tailor. I say talented, because he designed my American Airline uniform to make me, ArgieHoskins, really look like a stewardess. He knew where to cut and paste. Thank you, Mr. Colangelo.
Another "funny" comes to my immediate memory, like learning to mix drinks. I had never tasted the fruits of the art of mixing. Wow! I seemed to catch on faster than the most. Figure that! Martinis and Manhattans. Can't remember which has olive??? And which the cherry??? I think that the Martinis have the olive and Manhattans, the cherry. Oh, well, I never indulged anyway.
The other experience that quickly comes to my mind was the need to know how to find the rope in the exit windows, pull it on to the wing and down to the ground with me hanging on to the rope. I did it! This is when I learned the difference between “knowing and doing.” Another “doing” was the courage I had to find to control my heart and my mind and JUMP! Yes, out the door and down the evacuation slide! I did it! And I can't ride an escalator going down. The escalator moves, the slide didn't! I remember that thrill as if it were this very day. Sometimes I dream of the excitement.
Trained at the historical Midway Airport "Crossroads of the World," world's busiest airport. Class 57-6 1957 Graduation was held at the historical Stock Yard in Chicago. That was an event! Here we are dressed with our new brown uniforms and spectator shoes. The spectator is coming back in style. I am glad because I like the two-tone in color look.
AND here it is! My important paper that said, "successfully completed" and signed by Mildred Jackson (Millie) along with C. R. Smith and tremendous instructors. Hallelujah and Hallelujah, again!
As I left stewardess training, this is how I looked with short hair. One day a hair stylist came to the school to "fix us up" with a new hair "do." WOW! I could not believe what happened to my long, beautiful hair. It was very hard to keep the tears from bursting forth. I had thick, lovely locks and then "no hair." After the hair "do," the photographer took our pictures. Pictures to send home to the local newspapers announcing our training success. This smile was the best that I could "muster" up. Look at the back of the hair.
On the 21st of May 1957, I earned my wings. I was more excited over this pinning than when a couple years later, I was pinned by an Annapolis graduate who had become a navy pilot.
This navy man was a good friend. I appreciated his wonderful mother. I met Bob on a flight from L.A. to San Diego. After the flight, the A.A. crew had several minutes in the crew lounge before working the trip back to L.A. Captain Clarke said, "Argie, go out and visit with that young man." Clarke had seen us visiting on the plane. So, I went out to a concession area and there Bob was wondering around. We visited, he walked me to the gate and a wonderful relationship unfolded. I still have his wings. That is how the crew worked, always watching out for each other. Where is Capt. Clarke, one of A.A.'s best!
This Captain Clarke, Stewardess Jennings, the copilot and I all belonged to the same church. We didn't smoke or drink. I mention this because we all were together on the flight deadheading from El Paso, Texas to L.A. We had a fun time. Captain Clark said, "Let's take this flight to Heaven." He was a wonderful man! Good clean fun all the way.
Speaking of El Paso, I flew there a lot. My Aunt Boo, Uncle Bill and cousins lived there. During my layovers in El Paso, Aunt Boo picked me up at all hours, took me home, doted over me and took me back to the airport. I loved it. The rest of the crew stayed at the Hilton Hotel downtown. My favorite cousin Effie was young and how I loved her. I was living with them when I applied to American Airlines. I had a boy friend there, also. It was always so nice to get a home cooked meal with lots of fruit. Aunt Boo and I had always been like sisters. The kind of sisters who always got along. She was my mother's only sister. She was so excited to have me flying for AA.
Early on in my career, and it could have been a very short career, I boarded the Convair from Chicago to Indianapolis. Never had I seen the Captain or Copilot and I was scared to death. First month of flying! I was the only stewardess and no other Stewardess to help or cue me into the right choices. On to the plane in a ladylike, dignified manner and check all the necessary things like the Service Kit, magazines, special meals, pillows, blankets, where the coats should be hung, and check to see if this is a place that someone would like to come back to over and over, again.
Knowing that I would need to memorize the 40 names in about 40 minutes and serve a meal, my, oh, my, this was an absolute test in sequencing, multitasking, and time management. Well, I got the names down, but the plane started to descend and I had not served the meal. Running into the cockpit, I was so nervous, "I haven't started to serve the meal." "We are landing" came the voice from the Captain. I felt like jumping out the door. All I could hear, "Get started." In a few minutes, the captain came back and helped me get the food served and with good humor. We landed! The pilots got off the place and I stayed on the plane for 45 minutes. I sat there knitting and crying. When the crew came back, the captain brought me a candy bar, smiled and announced that the passengers were coming. Never had I received such a needed gift. Dear man and I don't even remember his name. American hired great people!
Another early awaking was in Lexington, Kentucky! This another, one flight, reserve, "on call" deal and no other Stewardess. Were they trying to "wash me out" with all these "one gal" all alone flights?? The crew, which incidentally included me, ArgieHoskins, arrived at a small motel for the evening. I hung my uniform on a dresser drawer , showered, curled my hair and went to bed. I had forgotten to set the alarm. BANG, BANG, AND ANOTHER BANG! "Our cab is here." Threw on my uniform, curlers still in my hair, no makeup and teeth not brushed, hurried my red embarrassed face out the door and into the cab. I will never and I mean never forget Lexington, Kentucky. I bet the crew, if they are still alive, are still laughing over that one. Glad to have brought them some laughter. Again, I thought, am I really cut out for this job!
I remember walking into Crew Schedule/Operation and the Stewardess office being right there with the supervising staff to take a look. " Wrong color of nail polish!" I quickly took it off and on went the right color. American Airlines red is what I called it. A few pounds over weight, "Argie, do you have a girdle on?" "Yes, mam, Playtex." "Well, you need to lose a few pounds." I wish I had the same supervision now. We were proud to be stewardesses for American Airlines. We looked sharp and served with enthusiasm, but always in a ladylike manner.
I needed to go west, so I put in for a transfer to L.A. leaving Chicago behind. Chicago had been exciting for me. One morning, I got up to go grocery shopping to find that my car was not in the place I had parked. I looked and looked, again. No car. As I was walking back into the apartment, way down the alley, my car! It was unlocked and no gas. I was so pleased that after the "joy" ride, they had returned "Autumn Leaves."
I moved from Chicago to L. A. Driving in my Chevy convertible, "Autumn Leaves" by name, I drove from Chicago to St. Lewis. After having a flat tire and no money to buy another tire, I decided that I needed a rest and stopped. Next morning, I left with no spare tire for the next leg on my journey to Animas, New Mexico. Home, here I come! Driving from St. Lewis to Las Cruces to stay with my brother C.L. and wife Joan. I arrived there late and thankful that I had a great car, "Autumn Leaves" to speed me through the roads of the Midwest to the Southwest. Next day on to Animas to see Mom and Dad.
Early photo of Argie, brother C.L., Mama and Daddy
I had a new appreciation for their simple, honest lives. They were amazed that their little girl had been to the big city and now made her way home, and all by herself. Was that ever so nice! Mother rode to L.A. with me.
Now in L.A. and back to work, I knew that my love for American Airlines would be forever. The memories are wired in and they are many, many. I could write a book. I could not believe that in my heart and mind, I had moved from thinking that I could not make it as a stewardess to knowing that I was one of the best. It took a lot of hard work to overcome telling myself that I was a shy, unattractive, dumb nothing with no one caring, and I could add a few expletives that I can not say or allow myself to think. With that being said, the one thing that I had going for me was the "hard work" ethic which had been instilled in me while growing up in a mining camp and on a cattle ranch. I dug my heels in, knocked the cow "stuff" off, "ponyed" up as the cowboys would say and viewed myself as all the things that I wanted to be. After a while, I was the person who I WAS! That is why I loved American Airlines, it challenged me to be me.
I learned the lesson that talent is more than dancing, singing, acting, and looking "pretty!" I learned that I had the talent for understanding people and feeling their hearts. My passengers love me because I gave them service. I learned from my training that you don't ask if someone wants a pillow, you have the pillow in hand to give it to them. What a wonderful lesson! Don't make people ask for your love. Give love without asking for it back. I got it back. As a stewardess, I was committed to serve others and it was easy for me. I learned something about me that was rewarding. Thank you, American Airlines!
Daddy worked, as a windmiller for the Diamond A, Victoria Land and Cattle Company ranch in Animas Valley, New Mexico. This ranch was located between El Paso, Texas and Douglas, Arizona. From El Paso to Douglas, American Airlines' flight path took us right over the ranch. Mother knew what time of the day that I flew over the ranch house. She would take her apron and wave to the plane as we flew over. The plane (DC 7) would be descending into the area of Douglas at an altitude which made Mama visible as I hurried to the window to see her. One day a passenger asked me what I was looking at outside the window. She laughed when I said, "My Mother!" On another occasion, as we were flying over the ranch, the plane banked to the right and then to the left as a salute to Mama. Yes, there was Mama, this time waving a rather large white dish towel or cup towel as we called it. "What is happening?" voiced a passenger." Well, we just aim to please." Little did anyone know that the person who we were pleasing was that little lady on the ground waving to her daughter. I can picture what Mama was doing in that small house, making it a home with her homemade bread, pickled peaches, washing clothes in the wranger washing machine and hurrying out to the garden to dig carrots for dinner. Perhaps she was on her way to gather eggs to be candled to take to the market in Lordsburg or wringing off a chicken's head for dinner. I knew this life well, before I started on my journey away from Animas Valley. I love my parents!
Cormac McCarthy's written words capture my world of southern New Mexico. I have experienced a loss not meeting this man whose imagination of the reality of my world is exciting to read and imagine. I having been born in Deming, New Mexico to a father who held the soil of Animas Valley in his huge hands as he artistically repaired the windmills among the puzzle of dust devils, cockleburs, thistles, devil's claws and thumbleweeds only to be a footnote in the sands of time that historically herald the southern area of the Land of Enchantment. Can you even imagine the threads of emotion I felt as I, a stewardess, flew over this land below me? How I wished that I could tell my passengers about that life "down" there.
Cormac McCarthy was born in Providence, Rhode Island, on July 20, 1933, and moved with his family to Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1937. ... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cormac_McCarthy - 72k - Cached - Similar pages -
Argie Hoskins and Mother Edna Hoskins at the airport in El Paso, Texas. 1957
These parents lived through the depression, but I was never hungry. Poor, but I didn't know it. They taught the values of honesty, staying out of debt, working very hard, being a good citizen of our country, respecting the flag, appreciating America, staying clean, saying "Yes mam, No sir, Please and Thank you for the good meal. May I be excused? How can I help you?" having good MANNERS, and faith in God. We appreciated our immigrant ancestors because they had sacrificed and worked hard to become a part of our great United States of America. I made a choice to follow the teachings of my parents. This is the foundation of my character that I brought to American Airlines. I used it to become an excellent Stewardesss.
Click on the above picture to view additional photos. 1959 American Airlines uniform Claire Bullock, Argie Hoskins, Barbara Whaley, Gerry McMasters
On Jan. 25, 1959, American became the first airline to offer coast-to-coast jet service with the Boeing 707. On this historical flight,I felt like a celebrity being one of the stewardesses to be picked out of 2,000 plus stewardesses.
The year of 1959 with American Airline was an exciting year for an airline stewardess because the population was thrilled to be riding on the jet. I proudly have my American Airline Jet Training Boeing 707 card. “This certifies the Argie Hoskins is a qualified Stewardess on American's 707 Jet Flagship. [signed]Ralph Radcliffe, Director-Stewardess Service."
The Westwood Ward newsletter: This and That Westwood Second Ward's ARGIE HOSKINS participated in an historical event Sunday when she was selected from among American Airlines stewardesses to accompany the Los Angeles to New York jet flight inaugurating four and one-half hour cross country service.
Addison, I had been trained and had flown the Convair, DC 6 and DC7, so I knew the flight procedures well. And now being trained on what we called the 707 Mock was not difficult.
I was based in LA Several of us were being trained for the 707 flights. All four of us Stewardess roommates were being trained. Sometimes, we all flew together on the same flight. That was a blast! When we got to N. Y., we went to shows and had a lot of fun. I remember us sunbathing on the beach in Santa Monica, boarding our plane to N. Y., and as we walked down the Avenue in N. Y. to Andy Williams show, it snowed on us. What a life! I have a journal entry on the 14th of January 1959: Supervisor Jean called and gave me a special assignment, “You and Claire (a roommate), are going to N. Y. on the 707 on the 25th and the 29th,” which is important. Wow. After training for the 707, which meant continued commitment to be focused and disciplined, this was an honor. Again, I thought, how do I multitask, sequence all that the job demands. Could I do it??
My wind-miller, cowboy father had said every morning went he lighted the gas stove in my bedroom, “Get up and amount to something, Sis.”
And I remember the words of C. R. Smith: "We strive to treat every customer with dignity and respect to make each person feel like the most important person in the world.” Yes, I could do that! "Until the 25th, I was very busy doing public relations for American. I went with one of the American Airlines sales representatives to meet and deliver Models of the 707 to VIPs in the LA area: President of a Stock Exchange, President and Vice President of California Bank, President of Citizen's Bank, leading advertising businesses, Pacific Mutual, Mayor Paulson, the publisher of the LA times, and many, many more individuals, President of Southern California Edison Co., and others who would be on the Inaugural Flight."
My journal entry of January 23, 1959: Friday: “We stayed in class all day long. We had our food service procedures today," which meant checking the buffet area for all needed item, what to turn on, what to turn off, all the food and beverage items for the flight including table clothes, Wine and Food menus, cocktail napkins, stirrers in preparation for a several course dining experience with special appetizers, salad, entree, dessert and fruit candy. If something was missing, we needed to know who to contact.
Prior to that Friday, we had been briefed on the emergency procedures.
Another journal entry January 24, 1959, Saturday: “I went to the airport, we finally got on the jet after much delay.” Now, that was the exciting day. I remember the feelings which flowed over me as I walked on the aircraft. Thinking, "This is the real thing."
More entry for January 24: "Had my hair cut and fixed by Mr. Reid, very pleased. Came home after appointment and got ready for the flight."
Journal entry of January 25, 1959: "Claire and I got up at 5:30, dressed, had a bite to eat and out to the airport, an hour and a half before the flight departure. While we were being debriefed, a newspaper man took our pictures. We boarded our aircraft and while having our pre-flight check, we had Gov. Brown and Mrs. Pat Brown, Red Moiser (AA Exec.), President C. R. Smith, Miss Jane Wyman, Mr. and Mrs. Hill plus others stroll through the plane. Mrs. Brown christened the plane, "Flagship California" with speeches by Gov. Brown and C. R. Smith. In different locations on the plane, bouquets of yellow and lavender flowers welcomed our guests. Oh yes, the stewardesses received orchids to wear. The entire flight was made up of very influential and successful people; newspaper people and cameraman, plus other wonderful passengers. The passengers were milling from one cabin to the other, Mercury to Coach. It was like a press conference and confusing for me. I gave Miss Wyman, my flight duster to wear. That being the dress, we wore during the food service. The task at hand was to serve our passengers; beverage & food with first class service in a very informal atmosphere, one big happy family. Everyone was having a grand time up in the "dream of sunshine and clouds." It was a magnificent experience and lots of hard work.
"We arrived in N. Y. 4 hours and 9 minuets later. A band was playing when we opened the door and bright lights were shining with people taking pictures."
"Our debriefing after the flight was interesting. We are helping work out all the things which need to be changed with the Boeing 707 stewardess procedural operations."
"We were so tired, Claire and I said, Never again."
After a good night's sleep, we bid the 707 flights again and again!
Claire Bullcock, Barbara Whaley, Argie Hoskins, Gerry McMasters
Through my blog and searching the internet, I have found Gerry McMasters Lockhart. What a Thrill! Only sad to find out that both Claire and Barbara have passed away. The lesson to be learned is that time passes so quickly and those who were dear to me may be gone when I get around to finding them. Life steps away into eternity, tomorrows into yesterdays. I will enjoy my today in a better fashion with love and continued commitment.
I am personally dedicating this blog's history to Claire Bullock, Barbara Whaley and Gerry McMasters, my wonderful friends, room mates and American Airlines stewardesses.
The following article appeared in the Spring 1959 of the United Aircraft Corporation's Bee-Hive trade magazine.
To view each page of this article: *Click on the article *Then enlarge the article by clicking on the magnifying glass which will appear in the upper right hand area of the screen *Drag the magnified article around the screen to read it *Back arrow to return to blog. Worth your time!
Minor correction: Claire and Argie were on the Inaugural flight on the 25th of January. We were all trained at the same time and soon flew together on that beautiful Boeing 707. I personally feel that Emily Watson did an outstanding job of capturing the world of Four Jills for the jets . Claire and Barbara had someone following them around to obtain these wonderful pictures and to get a peek into our flight experience.
I am so grateful that I have kept all my "stuff." The years have made "stuff" more meaningful. Along side an impressive Boeing 707 model that my sons gave to me, sits my blue uniform cap. Our family appreciates the foot prints of history because they direct our foot prints toward the future.
One day, I was in the stewardess office just hanging out, chatting with Kay Hansen. I didn't see her often, so this was "neat" and I loved to hear her personality. "We need to have a retirement home for American Airlines pilots and stewardesses, so they can sit around and tell each other about their varicose veins." We were talking about the importance of staying in our seats until the seat belt sign went off to protect our self from experiencing G forces on our body. Well, I didn't understand the physics of the force, but I had felt the impact. And now I see what varicose veins look like! At the time, Kay was serious about a home for us to live and sit in our wheel chairs. The underlining idea was a place where good friends could live. A place, where the wonderful friendships of the past could continue or be renewed during our last days, would be a joy and for good conversation. Thank you, Kay for always thinking of others and American Airlines.
Marge and Gower Champion Ahappy day! Everything went well. They were so personable. I can see their smiling faces still as they conversed with the stewardesses. On board we not only had the Champions, but we had the greatest Girl Scout cookies to serve our passengers. I put the Gerber apple sauce jars, which were always on the plane, in the ice to get nice and chilled. When we needed a snack. . . don't tell! Just buy Girl Scout cookies and chill the apple sauce and my, oh, my. Marge Champion at IMDB Marge Champion at Wikipedia
Vic Damone What a voice! The other stewardess brought a baseball on every flight for the VIP passengers to sign. He signed it. What a novel idea for remembering what I have forgotten. I would imagine she has fun with that collection. Vic Damone at IMDB Vic Damone at Wikipedia
Dinah Shore Another phenomenal 1959 voice with a warm personality and delightful to have around was Dinah Shore. What I remember about her was her contagious smile. Dinah Shore at IMDB Dinah Shore at Wikipedia
Dana Andrews Got on the plane and immediately crawled under his seat and went to sleep. I gave him a pillow for more comfort. That was before the jet days and all the stuff under the seats. He slept until I woke him to sit up and belt up. He was nice. Dana Andrews at IMDB Dana Andrews at Wikipedia
Gene Tierney One evening, I boarded American Airline in El Paso to find one of the most beautiful and troubled ladies I ever met. After the seat belt sign went off, she walked up and down the isle of the plane all the way to L.A. I asked her if I could help and she told me that she was ill, had a handicapped child and that she was very discouraged with her life. Her presence made me very sad. She was so beautiful and tender. Gene Tierney on IMDB Gene Tierney on Wikipedia
Robert Cope I was flying from L.A. to El Paso. One day an agent asked if they could take my picture with the actor named Robert Cope. After the photo scene, the agent said, “Give me your address and we will send a copy of the picture.” I never got the picture and I don't know anything about Robert Cope. Who was Robert Cope? Perhaps Robert and the other guy bet if they could get my address and their story worked. Oh, well!
Dean Martin Dean was an actor with John Wayne in the film Rio Bravo. From L. A., he was traveling back and forth to the Old Tucson Studios, just outside Tucson, Arizona. I was working the flight from L.A. to El Paso. At that time A.A. had a stop in Tucson. We became more than passenger and stewardess. Of course, I knew his name, but he knew my name. We visited, laughed, connected with energy to make the relationship real. During a conversation, he said, "You will never be a singer because you talk through your nose." The nerve! I practiced talking. He said, "You won't make it." He invited me out to the Old Tucson set. Could not make it. He invited me to Las Vegas to the Sands Hotel where he was going to be on a certain date for an engagement. Did not go. Many times, a Mr. Grey was with him on the plane. He introduced him as his agent. Any way, I loved getting to know Dean Martin. Once he told me that he drove by the Temple on Santa Monica and that if he weren't what he is, he would be the same religion as I. Dean said, "My drinking image of being a drunk is only that, an image." Dean was a kind, sensitive gentleman with a tender heart. Thank you for your "one of a kind" voice. Dean Martin at IMDB Dean Martin at Wikipedia
Dale Robertson I flew to El Paso a lot. One evening, flying back from El Paso to L. A., I boarded to find a problem with one of the passengers. She had gotten on the flight in Houston. Her story to me was that she had fallen in love with a man not of her faith. They had met in Europe that summer and planned a marriage. She had gone to Houston to meet his parents. While visiting, the parents announced that they would disown their son if he married her. Arranging for a friend in L.A to meet her, the love of her life put her on the plane bound for L.A. She had taken a lot of pills, was very despondent and filled with tears. About half way to L.A., she got up and came to the buffet where I had positioned myself across the isle from where she was sitting. Dale Robertson was sitting in the seat in front of the buffet. The lady lunged for the door of the plane and pushed me. Immediately, Dale came to my rescue. Helping me get the lady back to her seat and sat with her the rest of the trip. The crew radioed ahead for help with her on departing the plane. Dale is another passenger who I got to know on a casual level. Often , he flew on American Airlines to go to the horse races at the Ruidoso Downs Race Track. Another really nice man. From this experience I learned the lesson that religion can destroy relationships as well as welding relationships. So sad! Dale Robertson at IMDB Dale Robertson at Wikipedia
Maureen O'Hara I don't remember much about this beautiful lady. I didn't have much conversation with her. The one thing that I remember is the energy which I felt as she walked down the isle. There was nothing passive about her demeanor. I felt she was in charge. And I might add lovely! Maureen O'Hara at IMDB Maureen O'Hara at Wikipedia
Stephen Boyd Stephen Boyd was a young actor when he boarded American Airlines to be on my flight. He was one of the first actors I had on board. He seemed shy to me. I will always remember him because I felt like I wanted to know him as a person. Back in the days when I was flying, not only did we take down the names of our passengers, but we figured out ways to talk to them. We engaged them in conversation, tied the conversation to our memories. So when or if we had them on our flight again, we had something to talk about for an opener. One thing however we did not sit on the arm of the seat. I got reminded of that from a supervisor one time as she observed me sitting on the arm of the seat visiting with a passenger. I didn't get an invitation to visit with the strong, handsome Stephen Boyd. I must close this by saying that I did get a sideward smile as the seat belt sign went on for the landing. Stephen Boyd at IMDB Stephen Boyd at Wikipedia
Hope Lange About the same time that I had Stephen Boyd on a flight, I had Hope Lange. In fact, memory tells me that it was the same flight. She was a few years older then I, however she looked somewhat younger. And now she is gone. Where has all the time gone???? She had a sweet personality and I enjoyed her being on the plane. Hope Lange at IMDB Hope Lange at Wikipedia
Gene Fullmer This boxer was so nice. We had something in common, our religion. It was fun visiting with him. As a side note, my son Randy and Gene's nephew Troy are good friends. Gene Fuller a IMDB Gene Fullmer at Wikipedia
Lee Marvin As Lee Marvin was deplaning, an older lady was having trouble getting herself together to get off the plane. Without hesitation, he didn't just offer, but took her arm, her things, and away they went. She was pleased, I was a gentleman in action. I thought, "This is the aggressive, rough actor?" He is a dear man. Lee Marvin at IMDB Lee Marvin at Wikipedia
Pier Angeli She was on her way to Juarez, Mexico to get a divorce from Vic Damone. That is what she told me when I visited with her. She was sad with her green eyes, looking even more green with tears. Very, very pretty lady!I often felt like crying after visiting with sad people. I just cared the best I could for the few minutes that I had with them. She was kind. Pier Angeli at IMDB Pier Angeli at Wikipedia
Argie Hoskins and Gary Crosby (Bing's son) Palladium Ballroom Sunset Blvd.
Jane Russell When I had Jane Russell on the flight, I was still shy about talking to VIPs. During taking the names and destinations, all I could do was smile and give my best service. I learned that service was the foundation of relationships. Then you can talk. If the passengers were not on the VIP list, it was easy for me to visit. Somewhat later, I realized that we are more alike than different. And everyone, no matter who, wants the pillow to be offer, not to have to ask for it. Jane Russell at Wikipedia
Billy Eckstine Now this was exciting because Billy Eckstine's music was my kind of music from jazz to pop. I grew up with country music when country was country, but my new world had introduced me to another venue and I loved jazz, big band and pop. Speaking of venue, one evening I had a date who privileged me to the Moulin Rouge on Sunset Blvd where Schmo, Lewis Armstrong was playing. Schmo sang right in my face. What a thrill! Another time we went some place to listen to Dixieland jazz. Yes, it was exciting to have Billy Eckstine on my flight. Billy Eckstine at Wikipedia An exciting day for Jet travel! American Airlines Inaugural Flight! I am fifth from the left. Yes, there I am. My roommate Claire Bullock is second from the right.
January 25, 1959 If you know any of the crew members, please put their names on the blog. My room mate Claire Bullock passed away.
American Airlines Jet Celebrity Passengers
Inaugural 707 Jet Flight American Airlines Passenger Manifest Flight 2 January 25, 1959
MERCURY SECTION
Mr. and Mrs. Robert Adamson Robert Adamson Aviation Department, Shell Oil Co.
Alcott, Carrell CBS Radio News
Babcock, C. Jr.
Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Binns Joseph Binns Exec. V. P. Waldorf Hotel
Mr. and Mrs. Bull Frank Bull Sports Announcer
Meuschki NBC Monitor
Clark, Wilbur Owner, Desert Inn Hotel Las Vegas
Collins, W. C. Pres. of Northrop Aircraft
Dreyfuss, Henry Architect-Designer
Epley, M Long Beach Press Telegram
Fowler, Will AAL Public Relations
Frabutt, J. A. Pres. Int'l Telephone and Telegraph
Fry, Charles V. P. Austin-Field-Fry
Grainger, I Pres. Cera Exchange Bank N. Y.
Metz, Rex Cameraman
Mrs. Cordel Hicks L. A. Times
Hogan, William Sr. V. P. Treasurer, AAL
Jacome, Alex Pres. Jacome Dept. Store
Jamison, Frank G. Pres. Pacific Automation
Kirk, J. Paul Pres. Morris P. Kirk Co.
Kraugh, E. D. L. A. Herald Express
Mr. and Mrs. Abe Lastfogel Abe Lastfogel Pres. William Morris Agency
Miss Maryon Lears Merchandise Mgr. Silverweeds
Levitan, Paul CBS T.V. News
Dr. and Mrs. Majer Robert Majer Physician
Mr. and Mrs. Mytinger Lee Mytinger Corp. Sec'y and CoOwner Mytinger and CasselBerry
Mr. and Mrs. M. Pollard M. Pollard Airport Commissioner L. A.
Power, A. H. Partner Ernst and Ernst
Reiger, Henry United Press
SMITH, C. R. Pres. American Airlines
Smitter, Revel H. Sales Mgr. Waugh Engineering
Mr. and Mrs. Stabler R. A. Stabler Pres. Filmasters, Inc.
Stanton, Dr. Frank Pres. CBS
Stewart, Sam Coplay Newpapers
Stoneham, Herace Pres. San Francisco Giants
Summer, William Pasadena Star News & Independent
Thomas, Bill L. A. Mirror News
Mr. and Mrs. Karl Weber Karl Weber Chair of BD. Weber Aircraft
Weis, Elmer J. Exec. V. P. Pacific Pumps, Inc.
Winnett, P. G. Chair of BD. Bullocks
Mrs. G. Wright 89 years of age Mr. Wright, G.
Miss Jane Wyman Actress This was the world of show business on Flight 2. Miss Wyman was filmed wearing my flight duster. Flight dusters were worn while serving a meal. We had our choice as a crew to either wear or not wear the duster. It made a more appropriate dress for the food service. One, of the important reasons for the cover up, was that it kept the uniform clean. It was flattering to me that she wore the same size duster. I still have it, minus the belt, in my closet. Jane's company was pleasant to be around. Jane played the part of an American Airline Stewardess in the movie, "Three Guys named Mike." As a side note, she was married to President Ronald. Reagan. Jane Wyman at IMDB Jane Wyman at Wikipedia
Mr. and Mrs. Glen Wallichs Glen Wallichs Pres. Capital Records
Klein
Dr. Clark Millikan Cal Tech
ROYAL COACHMAN SECTION
Barnett, L Pres. Music Corp. of American
Barnett, Mrs. L Barnett, L 2 1/2 year Son
Barnett, Norman V. P. Barnett Int'l Forwarders
Bassetti, Miss M. SFO
Bath, Phil AAL Photographer
Berlin, Franklin G. Pres. Beemak Plastics
Blodgett, Robert AA Admiral
Bowers, H. E. Exec. J. E. Haddock Co.
Buller, E. Mayor Atwater, California
Burgess, Wm. H. Electronic Specialty Co.
Burgess, Mrs. Wm. H.
Caverly, R. J. Hd. Int'l Div. Hilton Hotels
Christophenson, Enoch Past Mayor Turlock, California
Clever, Dr. Walter Optometrist & Designer
Clever, Mrs. Walter
Elmore, John Prominent Farmer Brawley, California
Feitler, Michael Manager Oakland Realty Co.
Galloway, Neal Merced County California
Gore, W. L. V. P. Aerojet Corp.
Gundell, G. V. P. Nat'l Dairy Association
Haag, Mrs. E. H. Wife, Sales Mgr. Air Products Co.
Harris, John H. Pres. of Ice Capades
Havas, Gilbert Cr. Analyst Bank of America
Johnson, R. M. West. Reg. Mgr. Gen'l Controls
Jones, Dr. J. B. Pres. Abundavita
Jones, Mrs. Dee
Koda, Wm. Rice Grower, Worlds Largest
Koda, Mrs. Wm
Larkin, Mr. Fritz V. P. Security Bank
Lavender, Mr. G. Railway Express Driver
Little, Mr. Lee Radio KTVC
Lunn Nat'l Dairy Association
MacMorris, David DCA Eastern Rep. Sunstrand Turbo Div.
McGrew, Wayne V. P. Partlow Co. E. Hartford, N. Y.
O'Conner, N. V. P. N. W. Ayer & Son NYC
Parkinson, Allen Pres. Sleep-Eze Co., Inc.
Partlow, Howard Jr. Pres. Partlow Co. E. Hartford, N. Y.
Patterson, Lawrence E. Pres. Pepsi Cola Santa Ana
Ray, Jack V. P. Sales - Gen'l Controls
Rubel, E. E. Partner - Roemer & Rubel Buick
Rubin, M. Pres. California Jersey Mills
Smith, Russell Pres. Avery Label
Stebbins, Roger Pacific Coast Exec. - Sears
Tingdale AA Operation Service
Toner, Miss Alice Nurse - Larry Barnett Family
Watson, T. V. P. N.W. Ayer & Son N. Y.
Way, Gordon V. P. Bechtel SFO
Willett, Bernard V. P. Space Tech. Lab. - Greenwich Div.
Wolff, John Sales Mgr., Heating Gen'l, Control
Froglich, Dr. J. Jet Propulsion
Allen
Lombardi
I know that every flight had the most wonderful people walking through our doors. And now the names of most are long forgotten. Thank you for flying American Airlines, it was a pleasure to serve you.
VIP Passengers after the initial Jet flight
Helen Keller I consider having been touched by her life, a privilege indeed.The Helen Keller story is so inspirational. She made a difference in the paths she crossed. As she got off the plane, I thought about what it means to see and hear. When I am feeling down, I think of her, an example for all of us who whine. Oh, American Airlines, thank you for letting me fly with you! Helen Keller at IMDB Helen Keller at Wikipedia
Hugh O'Brian He is my “could have” opportunity to date an actor. This is how it all happened. I had been to a stake conference in Westchester, California where Charlotte Sheffield spoke. Charlotte Sheffield (born c. 1937) was Miss USA 1957.
Sister Sheffield spoke of her escort Hugh O'Brian, who had graciously respected her standards as they attended many events associated with the Miss USA festivities. She spoke of him as being a gentleman.
Well, straight from the conference I went to the airport for my assignment to New York on the wonderful new jet, Boeing 707. On the VIP list, that we got as the flight crew, was Hugh O'Brian's name.
When I took his name, I told him that I had just heard Charlotte Sheffield tell the congregation what a gentleman he was. That was back in the days when the stewardess checked names and took names of passengers. We conversed over the coincidence of here he was on my flight to New York.
The cocktail service brought another surprise. I offered and he said, “Since today is Mormon day, I will have tomato juice.”
Then the age old question, “Would you like tea, coffee or milk?”
“Milk” was the returned answer. We were having fun. After the meal service Hugh came to the buffet area and visited. He was on his way to New York to judge the Miss Rheingold Beer contest. He said that he had some time while there and would like to call me and we could get together. I was excited.
After the crew got our transportation ready to go to our hotel, the Plaza at Fifth Ave and Central Park, I got my knitting out for the trip into the city. As I sat there knitting, the captain said, “Who in this car is that man trying to get their attention?” I looked up and there he was waving and looking at me. All the way to town, we played the game. Hugh and Argie
Lucille Ball I worked the trip on the day before the Oscars from New York to L. A. and on the late night trip after the Oscars, I worked the trip back to New York. I had a lot of important movie people on the trips. Going and coming, I had Lucille Ball. She was a neat lady. After having one trip with her, she acted like we were old friends. The night back to New York, she took me up and down the isles introducing me to the passengers she knew and she knew many of them. That was a blast! Lucille Ball introduced me to the president of ABC films, Henry Plitt, who invited me to come to his office to see him. He said that I reminded him of the actress Carolyn Jones. I didn't think I looked like her. Never went! I didn't know about networking???? Mr. Henry Plitt was a gentleman with manners that showed respect.
Danny Kaye Mitch Miller This man saved our bacon. Bless him! Here we are in the first class section of American Airlines Boeing 707. It was a beautiful, happy day and we had Danny Kaye and Mitch Miller, the band leader on board the flight to New York. We had checked everything that needed to be checked, we thought! We sat down across from some passengers. Up, up into the sky we went and down, down the isle rolled the rolls, the silverware, and salt and pepper. Oh, glory! We were sooooo embarrassed! It could have been the end of American Airlines stewardess on that flight. When the seat belt sign turned off, Danny Kaye absolutely turned the place into "party time." He danced up and down the isle helping us pick up the rolling stuff. Continuing to help, into the buffet area he went with us. It was one of the best trips I ever had! The passengers love it. Talk about turning a lemon into lemonade, it happened. Danny Kaye at IMDB Danny Kaye at Wikipedia Mitch Millere at Wikipedia
Van Cliburn The setting was in Mercury Section of the 707. He sat on the left side of the plane facing the cockpit near the buffet area. We visited. He asked me where I was from, to which I replied, "Animas Valley, New Mexico." We were flying from the East to L.A. Van Cliburn summoned me and pointed, "You are from down there." He was right. If we were to fly due south, there Animas would be in all the glory of an arid desert. How did he know where Animas was and why did he point it out? He was interested in the world and connected with it. A very special artist. He can paint a picture with music that touches the soul. I knew him to be a great pianist during the years I was flying the 707. Every time I hear the notes of Liszt, I think of Van Cliburn. Every time I think of Van Cliburn, I think of Liszt. Thank you Van Cliburn for knowing where Animas is on the map of the world. Van Cliburn at IMDB Van Cliburn at Wikipedia
Jerry Lewis He and his balloons entertained the crowd in the Mercury Section with childlike behavior. He kept everyone laughing as he entertained himself. It was always nice to have an entertainer on board. The trip went faster and the crowd loved it. Thank you Jerry Lewis for bringing a smile to many people here and there. Jerry Lewis at IMDB Jerry Lewis at Wikipedia
Jackie Cooper In reading my journal, I just found another passenger who was on my flight. Jackie Cooper was a really nice person to board American Airlines. He was a real person. Jackie Cooper IMDB Jackie Cooper Wikipedia
Leo Durocher It was fun to have Leo Durocher on my flight because his wife Laraine Day was in my Sunday School class at church. Leo Durocher Wikipedia
Max Shulman Havinga desire to someday write "something" and to have it meaningful tomyselfandothers is a talent that I respect. And there he was on my flight! Loved it! Max Shulman Wikipedia Max Shulman IMDB
Charles Schulz Charles Schulz was one of my favorite passengers because he interacted with the world around him. He had the gift of connecting with his very presence by just being there. He reached out in an engaging way that I knew that he was watching the world in an interesting way. Thanks Charles Schulz for bringing us a taste of how you saw our world. I would really like to know how Charles Schulz viewed flying. He could explained life in a way that none other could. I am pleased that I had the opportunity of saying, "Thank you Mr. Schulz for flying with America Airlines." Charles Schulz Wikipedia
"Howie" Howard Laitin Enjoyed some jazz spots together. I love jazz and Howie was fine company for an evening "out on the town."
Argie Hoskins: Father's Day talk at Church
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Talk given in Church on Father's Day, June 22, 2009 by Argie Hoskins Shumway
Brothers and Sisters, Friends and Family,
It is my prayer that we will enjoy t...
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