BNSF News

Holiday Express Keeps Rolling

2009-12-14

Members of the military and their families continue to enjoy train rides on the BNSF Holiday Express, as the train visited sites in Iowa and Illinois.

Many participants have expressed their thanks. Here's a note from Jeanne Slusher, wife of Col. Michael Slusher.

I was able to take my son, daughter and grandson on the Holiday Express from Topeka (Kan.) last week while my husband is currently deployed in Sudan, Africa, and we had a wonderful time.

I wanted to thank someone at BNSF for taking the time to put together this event for soldiers - deployed and formerly deployed - and their families during the holiday season. My 4-year-old grandson had a great time, as did the rest of us, and I wanted to express my thanks... I'm extremely proud of my husband and what he's doing for our country, but it's always nice when someone else recognizes his service, too. Thanks again for the Holiday Express; it was a great event here in Topeka.

And Chris Landuyt, whose husband recently returned from Afghanistan, also expressed her gratitude in an e-mail.

We had a ball on the great train, and were so grateful! ...The boys had their toy train out the next day playing like the ride. We were snowed in for two days so it was nice to have something to play! It is rare in these times to find companies and people who stand behind their word instead of the cash flow. Thank you for being a company that does. Thank you for employing soldiers and assuring their jobs. Words cannot express my gratitude -- it is companies like yours that keep good people hopeful. God Bless You!

Kevin Kirk is a soldier who took his family on the train ride. He sent the following note.

I had the privilege, and I do mean privilege, of being one of your guests on the Holiday Express in Galesburg, Ill. My family -- wife, 6-year-old son and 1-year-old daughter -- had a great time. We were grateful for the hospitality shown by every one of your crew. I do not know if they are paid for this trip or if they are giving their own time; however, they were full of smiles and willing to make our experience as memorable as possible. My family had the privilege of riding upon the vintage sky car that had the little dining area underneath... it was the most amazing train car I have ever set foot on.... It was a great holiday treat... The other thing that impressed me was the gracious donation from BNSF to the Illinois Military Relief Fund. I know that will assist the families within our military community that use the benefits of the ILMRF. Again, I want to give my appreciation for last evening to BNSF, to the engineer, to the entire crew, and to anyone else who assisted in making this a special evening for my family. Merry Christmas.

Another note of gratitude was received anonymously, but it voiced a similar sentiment.

My family and I were lucky enough to ride your Holiday Express when it was here in Iowa. We wanted to thank you for the opportunity. Your staff was all very friendly and wonderful. My kids love their Christmas Ornaments that Santa gave to them on the ride. We all had a wonderful time. Thank you again!

The train recently has offered trips in Des Moines, Iowa, and Galesburg, Ill. Photos from the trips are available online (http://bnsf.smugmug.com).

BNSF Headquarters

For more information on the company and its transportation solutions, visit the BNSF Web site at www.bnsf.com