Interesting comment, Bob. Yes, many of the "old heads" that knew steam back in the day are gone now, but there is a new cadre of young people coming up who will carry the torch.
The 765's crew is a good example...the 765 has two primary engineers. I've been running her since 1985 and still enjoy handling that assignment. I'm 65 now, but in good health so I'll continue to do this for a few more years. The 765's other engineer is in his 40's! Not only that, he is a Division Road Foreman on NS. The best of both worlds. His first exposure to the 765 was when he was assigned as the company officer on board out of Bellevue when we deadheaded from the CVSR to Michigan in 2010. Aaron quickly got up to speed with the 765 and handles her very well. He is now a very active member of our organization.
There is something else in play here as well. The people at the top who are running Norfolk Southern right now are RAILROADERS, who understand and appreciate the history that steam power represents in the railroad industry. They have demonstrated that appreciation through the establishment of the 21st Century Steam Program, and by using a little steam to help celebrate their 30th birthday.
I'm very pleased that the 765's organization in Fort Wayne was in the right place at the right time to be able to participate in the NS program in a small way. We intend to go out and do the best job we can on these NS 30th Birthday trips in the hope that it could lead to even more opportunities to work with NS in the future. Time will tell...
