Mary Tessmann Schrecker followed her dream of becoming an airline stewardess after graduating from Lynchburg College in 1964 with a B.A. in Elementary Education.

The 1960’s was the golden age of commercial aviation, the heyday of flying.

For two years, then-Tessmann was based in Washington, D.C. for United Airlines and loved her career. In 1966, she married Lt Walter N. Schrecker, USAF. At that time, a stewardess who married was forced into mandatory retirement. So, as required by United’s policy, Tessmann quit.

She continued her academic pursuits, however, and earned dual Masters of Science degrees in Teaching the Emotionally Disturbed and Learning Disabled. Now an Air Force spouse, Tessmann Schrecker raised her family of four children and moved a total of 17 times.

In 1986, United Airlines agreed to settle a $33 million lawsuit that challenged its policy of barring married stewardesses – clearing the way for Tessmann Schrecker to happily return to work as a flight attendant in 1987 with a retroactive raise.

Tessmann Schrecker flew from 1987-2003, as a Qualified Purser, responsible for the overall management and coordination of the flight. She was also a two-time recipient of United Airline’s “Best in the Business” award.

Flying made a lasting impression on Tessmann Schrecker and her career brought the joy of flying and travel to her children.