Dan's Words: "Don't be timid about voting no. Take a look at what's been going around you. Unions at other airlines have recently turned down TAs. Some have already renegotiated. The post-no process needs to be lean and fast. A short poll, main points identified and mediated negotiations resumed and concluded all within 60 days. UPS has called for a strike vote. Typically, Union unrest at a sister cargo company nets additional business. We are undermanned with peak looming. We can close a good deal before Thanksgiving, one worthy of our dedicated service!"

I've had the privilege of working with Dan since the 777 came on board and respect and value his opinion a great deal. His integrity is impeccable and for those who feel he's being selfish with this all I can say is that's not in his DNA. It's true he's a Marine, and a damn good one at that. There are other Marines on property who have tried like hell to sell us company propaganda like "PBS is a good deal for us." He's not one of them, and when he says something people listen for good reason.

His perspective and opinion is the most important post on this entire TA thread and should be read by all and taken to the bank. I was riding the fence primarily due to external factors beyond our control (the economy, the NMB not being on our side, opinions from a lot of people I trust saying this may be the best deal we get, and the fact we blinked at a very bad time). Dan's letter has persuaded me we need to have a huge NO vote on this, not some 55-45 CF waffle. Let's circle the wagons and follow some sound advice from someone we can trust. All we risk is living under the old contract for a bit longer.