March 12 is a very big day in Southwest Airlines land....yes, it is the day that holds claim to two VERY important events--the births of Gary Kelly AND Herb Kelleher!

Did you know that our current CEO, President, and Chairman of the Board Gary Kelly shares the same birthday as our co-founder and Chairman Emeritus Herb Kelleher?  That’s right…March 12!  Happy Birthday, guys!  Here are a few other things you may not know about Gary Kelly:  

Maddie Ramirez from Briarhill Middle School in Highland Village, Texas wins the 2009 Adopt-a-Pilot Tie Design Contest.  Southwest Airlines Chairman, President & CEO Gary Kelly and Southwest Captain Bill Stone make a special presentation to the school and to Maddie.

Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett makes a presentation to Gary Kelly and Southwest Airlines.

For 25 years Southwest Airlines has graciously given their support to The Ronald McDonald Houses and has just passed the $10 million mark in donations to the charity.  Thanksgiving is a special time of the year when Southwest Employees give their time to serve a great Thanksgiving meal.