The captain’s voice softened. “Ma’am, I am Captain Hollis, and I would like to tell you something before we land.” Every head in the cabin turned toward my seat. “Thirty years ago, I was born on a flight just like this one, to a mother who was far from home and very frightened.” My husband squeezed my hand, and my daughter stirred, tiny and warm against my chest. “I have never forgotten what the crew did for her, and I am honored to repay it.”

He explained that the airline had a tradition for babies born in the air. “Your daughter will have free flights for life,” he said, “and the airline will cover every cent of your hospital bills.” Someone in the back began to clap. Tears ran down my face. Then the captain’s voice cracked, and he added, “And Marcus, the paramedic who delivered her, I would like you to come to the front of the cabin, because I have a letter for you.”