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Marine Sergeant Major Jody Armentrout prevented a potential disaster on an All Nippon Airways flight from Japan to Texas on Saturday (May 24). Armentrout, a seasoned Marine with over 20 years of service, noticed a passenger acting suspiciously. The passenger, who appeared agitated, was moving aimlessly between bathrooms and began eyeing the emergency exit door.
Armentrout's instincts kicked in when the passenger attempted to open the emergency exit. He swiftly intervened, tackling the man to the ground and securing him with zip ties. "I just knew he was up to something crazy," Armentrout told NBC News. The flight, originally bound for Houston, was diverted to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport, where authorities took the passenger to a hospital for a medical evaluation.
The passenger has not been charged, pending further investigation. Armentrout's quick actions were praised by fellow passengers, who thanked him for ensuring their safety. The Marine sat next to the restrained passenger for the remainder of the flight, maintaining vigilance until they landed safely.
Another incident occurred when a frustrated passenger punched a bathroom door upon landing in Seattle. This individual was also removed from the flight but has not been charged. Armentrout, reflecting on the unusual flight, said, "It was a weird flight."
Armentrout is set to return to Japan next week, continuing his service with the United States Marine Corps.