Kudos Across America – Los Angeles

Tuesday, July 30, 2024

With 40 minutes to final boarding at LAX, I realized I had left my carry-on at Terminal 1 security checkpoint after going through security. I was ready to give up and leave it because my flight was in Terminal 7 on the opposite side of the airport, and I had already taken the long route there.

Los Angeles International Airport Supervisory TSA Officer Tracy Layland (Photo by Ashley Gross)

Fortunately, my friend convinced me to speak to a TSA officer, and even more fortunately, that officer took me to their supervisor who, even more fortunately, was Tracy Layland. She immediately took on the challenge and made it her mission to guide me through the airport to pick up my bag and make it back in time to catch my flight. After 30 minutes of power walking and running through the airport, I was safe and sweaty at my gate with all of my belongings.

It's rare that you get to experience the good side of humanity without having to give anything in return. Tracy was truly a selfless, kind person who even made our mission to get my bag fun with good conversation and personal anecdotes.

If there was ever a doubt in my mind about TSA capabilities and competency, Tracy erased it. All TSA employees, in fact all people, should strive to be more like her.

You (Tracy) said you became a supervisor because you wanted to help bring some good to the TSA and government agencies, and I think you are a shining example that it is possible.

June XX, 2024 It's rare that you get to experience the good side of humanity without having to give anything in return. Tracy was truly a selfless, kind person who even made our mission to get my bag fun with good conversation and personal anecdotes.

Thank you, Tracy! I'll always remember this experience!

Lucas Weatherall