I didn't see any humor in it, either.
However, I'm impressed the crew did everything right.
I can understand why the hogger is easing the engine along. (Such as soft ties, soft roadbed and other likely concerns.)
And, seeing as that is an exempt crossing, and seeing as it doesn't see much rail traffic, I can fully understand strict adherence to the rules concerning flagging crossings.
In all, I thought all the hands involved did a pretty stinkin' good job.
Andre