I first met Tom Davis (the founder and chairman of Piedmont) in early 1970 when his flight had an intermediate stop at our station - Fayetteville, NC. He walked up to me and introduced himself by name not mentioning his title, and said that I must be new (true), because he had not previously met me. From that day forward he always called me by name, as was his practice to do with his employees. He treated us as though we were his family, and that created camaraderie within our work family that I have not see elsewhere. He instilled a common respect and dignity within us that remains to this day. Mr. Davis fostered a true spirit of oneness, and created the mindset that we were not simply an employee of Piedmont, but that we were Piedmont Airlines. His example of leadership was exemplary beyond those seen elsewhere. He accomplished many great things in the aviation industry. Tom Davis was bold yet humble, and he walked as tall with his employees as he did with the political and social hierarchy.

I feel blessed to have known Tom Davis, and I am thankful to have wonderful memories of him. It is truly my great pleasure to have been a part of his company that set the standard of “just how good an airline can really be”. I am proud to be a member of the Piedmont family.

If I had the opportunity to see and speak with Tom Davis one more time I believe I would say: Thank you Mr. Davis for sharing yourself and your airline with us. Job well done. God’s peace …. until we meet again.

Johnny Fermanides – Piedmont Airlines, Fayetteville, NC 1969-1993

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