thanks all for the encouragement and advice
i'm not an expert by any stretch of imagination and in hindsight, better attention and knowledge might have worked more favorably. but i felt that if the right rep got a hold of my complaint, i would get lucky. so, i requested that the upgrade AND downgrade calls be reviewed specifically to listen for the t&c about a time requirement. and in each instance, also reminded the reps about my longevity, tenure with amex, open (and closed) accounts, authorized user on others and overall outstanding relationship with the company. not to mention a shareholder.
i also DID NOT request to re-upgrade and pay the AF
i wrote a nice and detailed letter and now after more than two months, a dedicated MR corporate customer service agent who was assigned to my account, reviewed the entire ordeal, and after following up with me at least once weekly the last few weeks, called me this am to notify me of the outcome.
see image.