commercial is not based on humor like those we have successfully staged in the past. This is based on a true story of your people— Something that happened less than six months ago.” He paused, motioning to Bill and his team. “Flying your planes, and doing what you do best. We call it ‘Delivering Life.’”
Bella cut the lights as the screen lit up with the image of a Gulfstream V private aircraft adorned with UPS markings. As it flew, dark skies and lightning appeared in the distance.
The voiceover began:
“On October 17, 2007, UPS Captain Dennis Hoenston and co- pilot Susan Ingram were flying a high-priority package from Nashville, Tennessee, that needed to be delivered to Atlanta’s Hartsfield Airport. Time was in short supply and any delay could be devastating. As they drew near Atlanta airspace, air traffic controllers announced the closure of the runways due to an approaching storm, explaining it was too dangerous to land. Captain Hoenston pleaded his case. He needed to be on the ground to deliver his cargo immediately. As he’d flown for UPS for twenty- six years, his experience told him he must try. Finally, the tower gave him reluctant approval. While commercial aviation circled the airport, and aircraft controllers held their breath, the two UPS employees made a textbook landing and delivered their package.”
Captain Hoenston appeared, handing a small ice chest with the words human heart emblazoned on the side to a waiting EMT.
The announcer continued: “Why would two seasoned pilots risk a thirty-five million dollar aircraft and their own lives to deliver just one package?”
The scene switched to the two UPS pilots greeting a little girl in a hospital playroom. She was about eight years old and holding on to an IV cart. She extended first her hand holding the cart, and then the other, searching for a hug. Co-pilot Ingram bent down to accept the embrace. Hoenston stood smiling. Behind the little girl were her parents, two nurses and a doctor.
The announcer returned: “Because the thank you they would receive would be priceless.” The screen froze and the UPS logo appeared. “UPS. Shipping with a human touch.”
Bella hit the lights on cue. Nick immediately looked at Bill’s
team. He saw one of them mouth “wow.”
Bill finally spoke up. “That is really something.”