When did it become normal to brief passengers on past career exploits, planes flown, military vs. civilian background, what I had for breakfast, grooming habits of the FO, etc? I've been making PAs to passengers for almost 10 years now and have yet to find a tactful way let alone any need to work in the accomplishments or background of any crew member beyond names. A possible exception would be fake accomplishment (world roller derby champion, international aerial gymnast of the year, etc.) or birthday as a joke for a flight attendant or friend deadheading.