The Life of a Locomotive Engineer

About the Book

This book is an account of my experiences growing up in the Southern Appalachian Mountains, about exciting situations I found my self in as a pilot and aircraft owner for 20 some years. Also, many times I have been asked about the operations of a railroad. I have tried in this book to relate some of these operations while telling what goes on in the cab and the sights that are seen through a locomotive windshield. I have also related some of the narrow escapes and dangerous situations I have found myself in as an Engineer for forty years. Sometimes it was humorous, sometimes scary, sometimes deadly.

So all you guys and gals, who always thought you wanted to be a locomotive engineer let me tell you about what you missed. In some instances you'll be glad you did.

About the Author

The author grew up in the New River Valley of Southern West Virginia. He graduated from high school, and entered service. After serving in The First Cav. Division, in Japan, he applied for a position as Locomotive Fireman and was accepted at Peru, Indiana. In the fall of 49 he was granted a leave of absence to attend Concord College receiving his BS Degree. In the spring of 56 he was called back to work where he remained until retiring, in 1988, after 40 years service.

He and his wife have two sons, both Optometrists, and eight grandchildren.