The Fort Eustis Military Railroad

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I was in the Navy and stationed in Norfolk in 1973-74. The Army ran steam excursions for the public about once a quarter during that period with S-160 #607. They were free with the signing of a release and ran most of the day all over the base railroad. They really did things right with runbys and tours of the shops as well as allowing everyone access to the base exchange so they could shop and eat. Having a current green ID card allowed me some special privledges like cab rides and riding one of the MRS-1s and SW switchers to make up freight trains in various places along the line for freight runbys. On many trips they had Chaplain Colonel Joe Alutius (sp?) as fireman and Sgt Eubanks as engineer. Chaplain Joe explained he was a fireman during his Seminary School days and had really enjoyed firing the steamers then and at Ft. Eustis.

The layout of the Ft. Eustis Military RR was unique and built to be modeled. Multiple mainlines, wyes, small yards, engine terminal, plenty of trestles and grades and even a pier area. Truly a model railroad built to 12=1'.

I really love the USATC S-160s and have very deep memories of my time exploring the railroad. I'm glad most of the old Ft. Eustis engines are still around and hopefully they will all be restored at least cosmetically. I was also fortunate enough to get stationed in Dallas, Texas and spent many weekends traveling to the Reader RR In Arkansas where I got to operate and ride on the #1702, another beautiful S-160 for a couple years.

Roger Huber