Meeting with Pres touches 3407 families

BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB) - The President met with families of Flight 3407 during his visit to western New York.

It wasn't just a quick meet and greet on the tarmac. Ten family members of Flight 3407 victims had a 15 minute private and personal encounter with the President, one that they say lifted their cause immeasurably.

John Kausner said, "The President said, "I pledge my support.""

That's all they wanted. President Obama's word that he would work to pass legislation that would call for more experience and better training for pilots. Pilot error was ruled the cause of the crash in Clarence Center that claimed 50 lives in February 2009. The families are working tirelessly to ensure this avoidable tragedy doesn't happen again.

Marilyn Kausner said, "It was an honor to have the President come and acknowledge that."

Robin Tolsma added, "The President coming here, knowing that it was a stepping stone, and I've said this all along, it's a marathon. See the finish line, but we're not there yet."

The families said they would've been happy with a handshake and a nod from the President, but they got so much more. Sharon Green who lost her husband Brad got the first and longest hug.

Sharon Green said, "I look in his eyes and I see that he cares. And he also looked into my eyes."

Widow Kathy Johnston gave the President one of these Flight 3407 bracelets.

Kathy Johnston said, "Today, President Obama did put a bracelet on for us, which really meant a lot to all of us."

The two sisters of Beverly Eckert, a 9/11 widow, say their meeting was bittersweet because she had just met the President six days before she died in the crash of Flight 3407.

Karen Eckert said, "That was difficult. He remembered her and gave us a hug."

The families who lost loved ones in the Flight 3407 tragedy said they are fulfilled after their meeting with President.

Sharon Green said, "Now I think something's going to be done. I really have that confidence."

Their fight continues. The families are going back to Washington next week to show their support at an NTSB safety forum and to try to lobby with more congressional leaders to get the FAA Re-authorization Bill passed before it expires on July 3rd.