I just finished reading the original post and I wish to comment on this. If my response seems rash and hurtful I apologize but this is a hot topic for me.

Kalyx....
I would have waited until the pax had boarded the aircraft and then and only then would I spew forth such colorful vernacular that it would make a sailor blush. During my time in college I worked for 9E as a gate agent/ramper/etc. and I cannot say that I have ever been rude or demeaning to any airline employee travelling through my station. That being said I have been in contact with the worst mannered, most ignorant, and simply mean people that work for 9E and other airlines. I have been insulted, made fun of, and even spit upon by my gate agent "colleauges" in this industry. I am furious when I witness a situation similar to yours.... quite simply its bull$h!t.... Now, I can't say that I am a vindictive person but if I do hope that this sort of behavior begins to be reported more often and that action will be taken.

Will anything change? Probably not... it is the same uneducated and ill mannered people who are willing to work for a pitance of a wage.... thus the quality of the employee.

I completely understand how you felt Kalyx..... just remember that what goes around comes around!

Have a great weekend!