Video: The Holiday Express Train Makes A Stop In Amory

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AMORY, Miss. (WCBI) – A major railway company is saying “thank you” to local military members and their families.

A special BNSF train made a stop in Amory and hundreds hopped on board the Holiday Express Train. For the railway, it’s a way to way to give back to those who serve their country and for military members, it’s a way to spend time with their loved ones this Christmas season.

It’s the 7th annual year for the Holiday Express Train to travel around, bringing Christmas joy to families of military members. In just five days,  the train has visited Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, Mississippi and Alabama. BNSF Railway makes it a goal to continue supporting military families. Nearly 300 National Guard members and their families boarded the train for a special ride.

“Often these officers, soldiers, are deployed away from their families and what we try to do is bring them together in a unique setting so that they can have a quality time with their family members,” said Joe Faust, Director of Public Affairs, BNSF Railways.

Once all are on board the vintage train cars, the 90 mile adventure begins.

“Santa gave me this ornament,” said Charlie York, a train passenger.

Hot chocolate, cookies and other festive snacks are just a few things enjoyed by those on board.

For the kids, it’s a day full of family centered fun.

“It’s pretty good, I love it. I love the hot chocolate, I like the snacks that they have here,” said passenger, Sam Smith.

“Been drinking some hot chocolate and eating snacks and looking at my book,” said passenger, Nylaijah Smith.

For the kids, it might be all about the Christmas fun but for the National Guard members on board, the day means much more.

“A lot of guys still overseas, still fighting for the country, they’re not here to celebrate Christmas with their family, so just to be here and to be around my kids, it’s a good opportunity and I appreciate it all,” said Sargent Brown Nugent, member of the National Guard.

“They’re only little once and it’s very special,” said Michale Crowmeans, member of the National Guard.

The Holiday Express Train will make a stop in Birmingham next.

BNSF Railway also made a donation of $20,000 to two local non-profit organizations that provide support to military families.

Categories: Local News

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