As the stimulus package debate has unfolded these last few weeks, certain parallels with Flight 1549 have emerged.
It became obvious to me as I listened to interviews that First Officer Jeff Skiles did not obstruct the commands of Captain Chesley Burnett "Sully" Sullenberger III during the crisis of January 15, 2009. The resolution of the crisis of Flight 1549 was a safe "crash landing" in the Hudson River.
Suspend belief for a moment and imagine that First Officer John A. Boehner was on Flight 1549 that day. Who knows where Cactus 1549 would have ended up! Tail up in someone's living room?
The successful conclusion of this crisis required the solidarity between Captain Sullenberger and First Officer Skiles. If the First Officer had his own agenda or axe to grind that day, the safe return of the 155 passengers and crew might not have had the joyous conclusion it did achieve.
When you are in a crisis and about to fall out of the sky, you don't have the luxury of using your pre-landing checklist.
It appears that Republicans have chosen this particular moment in history to grind their axe and place their agenda above the welfare of America! Republicans need to show solidarity during this time of crisis so the good ship America can find safe refuge.
Congressman Boehner could take a lesson from First Officer Skiles in that respect!