Labor Union Blog

Capt. Chesley Sullenberger

Capt. Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger, the heroic pilot who, along with his crew, was responsible for the “Miracle on the Hudson” last January, will serve as the Grand Marshal for the 2010 Tournament of Roses festivities. Sullenberger will ride in the Rose Parade in front of a worldwide television audience and toss the coin before the 96th Rose Bowl Game on New Year’s Day.

Sullenberger and his crew became international heroes on Jan. 15, 2009, when they safely guided US Airways Flight 1549 to an emergency water landing in New York City’s frigid Hudson River. The Airbus A320’s two engines had lost thrust following a bird strike. No one on board was injured.  

Jeffrey Throop, acting president of the Tournament of Roses, says Sully symbolizes the tournament’s theme of “2010: A Cut Above the Rest,” which honors everyday heroes and the effort to always improve.

Captain Sully saved the lives of 155 people and is an excellent example of the everyday American hero. Sullenberger has certainly shown how we can do that and we are honored to have him host the 2010 festivities.

Sullenberger, with 40 years of flight experience, served as instructor and safety committee chairman for the Air Line Pilots (ALPA) union. Following the US Airways merger with America West, the airline’s pilots are now members of an independent union.

Sullenberger said he is “incredibly honored” to be named the Grand Marshal.