Kay Bailey Hutchison: “I rise today with Senator Feinstein and 50 of my colleagues to submit a resolution to honor the service and…”

“I rise today with Senator Feinstein and 50 of my colleagues to submit a resolution to honor the service and professionalism of the men and women in the United States who serve as flight attendants. A career as a flight attendant requires a deep commitment. Their schedules are unpredictable, their work hours are long and intense, and the nature of the job causes long absences from the company of family and friends. Not too many years ago, a flight attendant, or 'stewardess', could be fired for getting married or becoming pregnant. Happily, those dark ages are over, thanks to the sacrifices made by generations of flight attendants who have served all of us. Today's flight attendants are dedicated men and women who are charged with many important responsibilities. Of course, they serve food and beverages to passengers under cramped and difficult conditions. They also assist children traveling alone, as well as elderly and disabled passengers. When requires, they administer first aid, including CPR and artificial respiration. Most of all, they are responsible for the safety and security of the passengers from the time the aircraft pulls away from the gate, and they are on duty until the plane arrives at its destination.”