ALPA president Capt. Tim Canoll (left) with Presidential Citation recipient F/O Kassandra Bernskoetter (FedEx Express)

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA) today recognized FedEx Express First Officer Kassandra Bernskoetter with a Presidential Citation for her exemplary contributions to ALPA’s Critical Incident Response Program (CIRP)—a program that mitigates the psychological effects on airline pilots following an accident/incident and aid in the normal recovery from these events. The award was presented during ALPA’s biannual Pilot Assistance Forum.

“First Officer Bernskoetter’s passion for ensuring that her fellow crewmembers have access to the myriad of programs that support pilots and their families during times when they need it most is inspiring,” said Capt. Tim Canoll, ALPA’s president.

Based in Memphis, Tenn., First Officer Bernskoetter has distinguished herself as an invaluable member of ALPA’s CIRP team. During her 13-year tenure, she played a crucial role in the accident investigations of FedEx Express Flight 80 near Tokyo, Japan, in 2009 and Comair Flight 5191 near Lexington, Ky., in 2006.

“Kandy Bernskoetter is a dedicated professional who relentlessly pursues the Pilot Assistance mission. Those of us who regularly work with Kandy all agree that she is a force of nature. Her energy and enthusiasm provide inspiration to all those around her,” said Capt. Chuck Dyer, chairman of the FedEx unit of ALPA.

In addition to her CIRP efforts, First Officer Bernskoetter also authored the honor escort guide, outlining how pilot remains are to be transported and procedures for the honor guard who receives them. Additionally, she founded the Pilot Assistance Team Hotline for the FedEx Express pilots, which has offered aid to more than 200 members since its creation in November 2015.