Sgt. John W. Perry was one of two individuals killed in an explosion at a United States airbase on November 12^th. Perry, 30, along with PFC. Tyler R. Iubelt died from injuries after an attack by an apparent suicide bomber at Bagram Airfield.

Stewart Perry, John’s father, along with wife, Kathy, and daughter were flying to Philadelphia where they were to travel to Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to receive John’s remains. Departing from Sacramento, the family had a quick transfer in Phoenix. Afraid that the Perry family would miss their flight to Philadelphia after a 45 minute delay in Sacramento, the captain of the flight announced that all passengers should remain seated to let a “special military family” exit the aircraft first. The family then proceeded to receive boos and complaints for their preferential treatment.

“It was really disgusting on the passengers’ part,” Stewart said in an interview, “It was just disgusting behavior from people in first class; it was terrible to see.”

Of course, Mr. Perry had nothing negative to say about American Airlines, who had accommodated him and his family in the exchange. Perry said, “You could see the disappointment from the flight crew.”

Instances such as these are a product of the disconnect between the American public and the sacrifices of military families. We encourage individuals to be thankful of veterans and active duty and to take into consideration the burden they bear. A greater awareness of the military’s role is a positive step that will combat the negative consequences of a military disconnected from the national conscience.

That’s what executives at retail giant Sports Authority are hoping they can achieve. Like many businesses focused on brick-and-mortar stores, the chain has struggled in recent years as consumers have shifted toward online shopping. The company has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection, giving it a period of time to reorganize, during which it will be protected from creditors.

Some people mistakenly think that when a business declares bankruptcy, that means it goes out of business forever. And indeed, about 140 of the chain’s 463 stores will close, including at least two in the greater Tampa Bay area. However, CEO Michael Foss said the move will allow much-needed investments including upgrades to stores and website enhancements, resulting in an improved experience for customers.

In January, Sports Authority missed a $20 million interest payment to creditors.

Many companies have filed bankruptcy and later achieved stability, or even impressive growth. Examples include General Motors, Marvel Entertainment, Six Flags, American Airlines and Kodak.

O. Reginald (“Reggie”) Osenton is the Owner and President of Osenton Law Office If you need a Commercial Bankruptcy attorney in Brandon, Tampa business bankruptcy lawyer, call 813.654.5777 or visit http://www.brandonlawoffice.com.

Captain Jason Haag, a former Marine, was trying to take a flight to Virginia with his service dog Axel. They were returning home after attending the American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards in California, where his German shepherd was named Service Dog of the Year.

Haag’s relationship with his service dog has become a life-changing one for him. The 35-year-old veteran, who has served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. He was introduced to Axel in 2012 through K9s for Warriors, a program that connects disabled veterans with service dogs.

In an apology issued by American Airlines on Sept. 21, company spokesperson Victoria Lupica said, “We apologize to both Captain Haag and his family for the confusion with the travel plans . . . Thank you, Captain Haag, for your service to your country. We are extremely proud to fly you, Axel and your family.”

The apology came after American Airlines employees reportedly demanded proof that Axel was a real service dog even though he was wearing a special vest and harness that identified him as one. Although Haag was in compliance with the airline’s policy on service animals, he was interrogated about his disability and asked to supply additional paperwork. The American Airlines website states that service dogs are welcome on flights and does not mention an ID card requirement.

The American Humane Association said Haag’s experience highlights the need for better employee training. “Service animals are absolutely essential to so many people who struggle with emotional and physical challenges. In this case, the airline did not even follow its own guidelines,” the association’s president and CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert said in a statement.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact an attorney about your Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, Mental Health, Sexual Assault, Hearing Loss and Tinnitus, Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability, Medical Malpractice, or Aid and Attendance claim, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

Captain Jason Haag, a former Marine, was trying to take a flight to Virginia with his service dog Axel. They were returning home after attending the American Humane Association Hero Dog Awards in California, where his German shepherd was named Service Dog of the Year.

Haag’s relationship with his service dog has become a life-changing one for him. The 35-year-old veteran, who has served tours in Iraq and Afghanistan, suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder. He was introduced to Axel in 2012 through K9s for Warriors, a program that connects disabled veterans with service dogs.

In an apology issued by American Airlines on Sept. 21, company spokesperson Victoria Lupica said, “We apologize to both Captain Haag and his family for the confusion with the travel plans . . . Thank you, Captain Haag, for your service to your country. We are extremely proud to fly you, Axel and your family.”

The apology came after American Airlines employees reportedly demanded proof that Axel was a real service dog even though he was wearing a special vest and harness that identified him as one. Although Haag was in compliance with the airline’s policy on service animals, he was interrogated about his disability and asked to supply additional paperwork. The American Airlines website states that service dogs are welcome on flights and does not mention an ID card requirement.

The American Humane Association said Haag’s experience highlights the need for better employee training. “Service animals are absolutely essential to so many people who struggle with emotional and physical challenges. In this case, the airline did not even follow its own guidelines,” the association’s president and CEO Dr. Robin Ganzert said in a statement.

Legal Help for Veterans, PLLC fights for veterans rights. We fight to make sure you get the benefits you deserve from the Department of Veterans Affairs. To learn more or contact an attorney about your Post Traumatic Stress, Traumatic Brain Injury, Mental Health, Sexual Assault, Hearing Loss and Tinnitus, Total Disability Based on Individual Unemployability, Medical Malpractice, or Aid and Attendance claim, visit http://www.legalhelpforveterans.com/ or call 800.693.4800

American reached a settlement agreement in March with Travelport, an airfare data provider that also owns 48 percent of Orbitz. The two companies agreed to a new global distribution system. Last year, American reached a settlement with Sabre Holdings Corp., an online flight reservation provider. A jury trial had already begun in Texas state court when the Sabre settlement was reached. American had accused the companies of antitrust violations.

The resolution of the litigation against Orbitz is another step for AMR Corp. to emerge from bankruptcy protection. The bankruptcy court must still approve the settlement agreement. AMR Corp. recently announced plans for a merger with US Airways to form the world’s largest airline.

The dispute with Orbitz arose over the agency’s method of displaying information about the airline’s flights and fares. American wanted to introduce its own method of displaying information, which allows consumers to take into account information other than air fares. The lawsuit claimed that Orbitz displayed fares for American Airlines that were higher than they actually were. In 2010, American removed its fares from Orbitz, but the fares reappeared in June of 2011.

Gregory D. Jordan is an Austin business attorney and business litigation lawyer. To learn more, visit http://www.theaustintriallawyer.com or call 512-419-0684.