Final Flight for Captain Russell

 Glenn and I were beyond honored and blessed to be on the very last flight of our good friend, Scott, otherwise known as #19 in seniority with AA, or even #6 for those pilots based out of DFW.

The night before, the crew enjoyed a retirement party at a local German restaurant.  Scott received some beautiful gifts and appreciation from the pilots and flight attendants.

The Stewart-Russell Selfie

The crew decorated a poster board and we carried that to the 

p-a-r-t-y

 and then posted it in the cabin on the final flight the following day.

Scott got lots of gifts to remember his retirement.

On Friday morning, before leaving the Novetel Hotel in Mainz, the crew gave Scott several helium balloons that he ceremoniously let fly away - just like flying off into his retirement.

Final crew picture of Captain Russell with wife Barbara and rest of the AA crew members who worked Scott's last flight, AA 71, FRA - DFW August 29, 2014.  That is 36.5 years of employment with AA and 6 years previously in the military.

Final stop - FRA.

Walking through the airport the last time.

The atmosphere on the airplane was festive and light.  Passengers clapped as they introduced Scott's retirement flight.

 {photo by Barbara R}

Then upon arrival into DFW, the 777 was greeted by the traditional

 Water Cannon Salute

 with the plane rolling slowly underneath the water spray from the fire engines .

Then Scott stood at the door and greeted everyone as they strolled off the 777.

{photo by Barbara R}

Then we were greeted by ground personnel to congratulate Scott on his retirement.

 Grandmommy and GrandDaddy came out to pick us up and got to greet the newly retired Captain.

Our friendship started in Bolivia, South America 18 years ago.

AA Captain Cameron goes to see our missionary friend Jeff and Kathy.

Next, Captain Cameron introduces us to first officer Don.

Several weeks later, Don flies down with AA Captain Scott and

the rest is history.  

We've been friends and were blessed by his visits in Bolivia.  Scott played racquetball with Glenn.  Then when we moved to Guatemala, Scott and his family have visited numerous times.  Barbara is a professional licensed counselor and has helped many Camino missionary families with her helpfulness, her love and her insights into our challenging work and ministry.

Thank you Scott for your 36.5 years of work with American Airlines.  We wish you the very best in your retirement years.