TSA Transportation Security Officer (TSO) Lekebie Washington received the “Safe & Sound” award from Philadelphia International Airport’s (PHL) Employee Recognition Program. This award recognizes employees who safeguard the integrity and safety of passengers through proactive communication, exemplary teamwork, courage, and decisive action.
Washington, who also has a military background, has been a TSO for over seven years. His responsibilities involve helping passengers safely travel to their destinations. “It is my duty to serve my country, especially the great people of Philadelphia,” he shared.
Travelers Aid International Volunteer Manager Morgan McBrearty nominated Washington for this award, sharing, “TSO Lekebie Washington demonstrated exceptional initiative and compassion when a senior passenger with limited time before his flight needed to reach Terminal E. Concerned the passenger might become lost or miss his flight, Lekebie personally escorted him all the way to his gate, ensuring he arrived safely. His kindness and dedication helped create a positive and stress-free experience during a critical moment.”
One of the most meaningful parts of his job as a TSO is simply making a guest’s day easier no matter the circumstance and showing kindness to strangers. Throughout his career, Washington has learned the art of empathy. “You never know what people are going through, you have to have compassion for others,” he explained. He recalled an incident where he noticed a passenger who was visibly upset. “She was flying to help her daughter who had just lost her husband. She began crying and I consoled her the best I could. After she went through security another passenger said, ‘That was a nice thing to do.’ I responded, ‘That was the only thing to do.’"
Washington’s fellow TSOs describe him as the nicest officer in the Department of Homeland Security. Washington believes in persevering through challenges and not letting obstacles define the outcome of a situation. “Don't shy away from difficult situations. The solutions you are uniquely able to provide may solve the problem,” he shared.
“I would like to thank my entire B/C team, both past and present, whose teamwork and positive attitude make it easy to provide outstanding service to our passengers.”
The PHL Employee Recognition Program was established by the airport’s Strategy Groups’ Guest Experience (GX) unit. Honorees are nominated by their peers and guests and are selected by the GX Council Steering Committee’s Stakeholder Engagement Committee. For more information about the program and to nominate an employee, click here.
