Norfolk Southern recently unveiled a locomotive that honors emergency first responders.
The red, white, and gold SD60E locomotive features insignia recognizing police, fire and emergency services. Featuring a paint scheme designed by Norfolk Southern’s Visual Communications team and painted at the company’s Juniata Locomotive Shop in Altoona, Pa., the locomotive will be used on general revenue service on the company’s 22-state network.
“The relationships we have with first responders across our network are vital components of operating a safe transportation system,” Jim Squires, NS president and CEO, said in a news release. “We hope everyone who sees this locomotive will think about the dedication, the expertise, and the sacrifices first responders make to serve our communities. We at Norfolk Southern are grateful for their support, bravery, and partnership.”
The locomotive — which appropriately is No. 9-1-1 — features the police shield, the Maltese Cross of fire services and the Emergency Medical Services’ “Star of Life.” It also sports the logo for Transportation Community Awareness and Emergency Response (TRANSCAER), a national organization that provides education and resources to help prepare for a rail disaster.
“Incidents involving trains and hazardous materials are rare,” Squires said. “This is a safe mode of transportation. To make it even safer, communities and Norfolk Southern work together to raise the level of emergency preparedness, which is why we continuously facilitate training, dialogue, and partnerships with emergency response leaders across our network.”
Norfolk, Va.-based Norfolk Southern in 2014 conducted or participated in 98 TRANSCAER community outreach events in 17 states, the railroad said.
