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Ian Epstein, a flight attendant aboard the doomed American Airlines passenger plane that collided with the army Black Hawk helicopter, was granted a fitting salute at his home airport.
As reported by People Magazine, a plane hosting Epstein’s remains was granted a water cannon salute as it made the touchdown at Charlotte Douglas International Airport on Monday, February 3. At the time, several people came together on the tarmac to pay their respects as they witnessed the plane being showered with water.
According to DVIDS, "Water cannon salutes are a mark of respect in both the civilian aviation industry and the military aviation enterprise when a senior pilot retires, an aircraft retires, the arrival of a new aircraft to an organization and the final flight of an aircraft from an airport."
The life and legacy of Ian Epstein explored:
Ian Epstein, who was a 53-year-old dad, became a flight attendant after having worked for years as a salesman. His wife, Debi Epstein, told the outlet that he had a “passion” for traveling, which prompted him to become a flight attendant in February 2020.
“He wanted to do it so badly, and I wanted him to have his dream,” she said. "He absolutely loved being a flight attendant. He loved interacting with people. He loved traveling," she added. "He was a character. He was a comedian. He enjoyed putting on a show, and he did. He brought that to being a flight attendant and greeting everybody with a smile and just making them feel comfortable flying.”
Ian Epstein’s memorial services were held on Wednesday, February 5, at the Chabad Center for Jewish Life in Charlotte. He was one of the 67 individuals who lost their lives in the mid-air collision last week. Per AP News, he was described as a loving father, stepfather, husband, brother, and uncle, with a career that afforded him the opportunity to connect with people and explore the world.”
“We believe he was supposed to be on that flight because it was full of laughter and fun before the tragedy,” his wife said, per the outlet.
Sara Nelson, international president of the Association of Flight Attendants, also took to social media to upload the video, while her caption read, “Fly with us forever, Ian.”
(Video via YouTube/ABC News)
Karolyn Szot, who claims to have met Ian on one of his recent flights, also took to Facebook to pay her respects in a lengthy post. She lauded him for being chirpy and helpful during their encounters.
“We were flying with our son, and when he saw me carrying multiple bags, and Bruce who didn't want to walk, he asked me if I drink wine,” she penned. “He immediately brought me a glass of Sauvignon Blanc to my seat [on him] and told me to keep up the great work of being a mom. He was lovely.”
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On Wednesday evening, a public candlelight vigil was held for all the lives lost aboard the aircraft at an Alexandria, Virginia, park, AP News has reported. At the service, Ian Epstein’s life and legacy were honored as well.
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