Kudos Across America – Chicago

Monday, November 18, 2024

I was on my way that night to Montreal for a work assignment when I emptied my pockets and found the only set of keys to my wife's car. I had run an errand prior to getting picked up by Uber for the drive to O'Hare (Chicago O'Hare International Airport-ORD) and forgot to leave them at the house.

Chicago O'Hare International Airport Supervisory TSA Officer John Morgan. (Photo by Illinois Media Team)

After successfully passing though security, I had to act quickly to get the keys back to her, and there was no time to have my wife or my son drive an hour to the airport. Also, my flight was boarding in 10 minutes. I looked up and saw one of the TSA officers walking toward me and asked for his help. The officer's nameplate read Morgan.

Officer Morgan could see that I was desperate, but he didn't break a sweat. He calmly listened and then said he was not supposed to do what he was going to propose, but he asked if I trusted him, and I said "Yes, of course!" I gave Morgan the keys, with my business card, name, number, address, and my wife and son's name. He then gave me his cell number and said to call them and have them come to the airport and call him. He would then walk the keys out to the curb. He informed me that he worked that evening until 8:30 p.m., which I said was plenty of time for either my wife or son to come to the airport in a neighbor's vehicle.

ORD STSO John Morgan assisting a passenger. (Photo by Illinois Media Team)

I was amazed at how quickly and effortlessly Officer Morgan helped me. I found him to be professional, helpful, friendly, creative, and very understanding of the situation. He's a superstar!

The icing on the cake for me is that John said NOT to contact the TSA with a compliment, until I could verify with my wife or son that they received the keys. This guy is the best!

When I landed in Montreal there was a text from my son telling me that the keys were received, just as John said they would. Thank you, John Morgan. You really saved me.

I don't know if I will meet John again so I ask you to please convey my personal thanks to him when you receive this.

Thank you.

By Wayne Carey, Strategic Communication & Public Affairs