I was researching the history of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific and found that the original land grants mandated they provide free transportation to members of the militia. It's an anachronism, however I wonder if this provision is still honored by AMTRAK or any of the commuter roads now on those tracks. Curiously in New York State members of the militia must be passed free over any bridge or on any ferry within the state.
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Good info on that link Charlie.
When, I was a young Seaman in 1962 and traveling home for the first time, as a Military person,
I was in my U.S. Navy uniform ready to drop a nickel into a Staten Island, N.Y. ferry turnstile, when a ferry boat hand called me over to a gate and told me Military personnel is free of charge.
Though the fare was only five cents, I thought that was a great tribute to Service personnel.
Even in civvies just show the military I. D. card.
Ralph
This is the reason Amtrak still exist today. When all the passenger services where being eliminated. The federal government had to step up and keep primary lines available for the U.S. to mobilize troops in case of an emergency/war.
Railroads are still the most efficient way to move troops at a moments notice from coast to coast.
J Daddy is dead on with his post. While in the Air Force I worked
in Operational Plans, lets just say whatever the contingency they
(The military) have it covered.
During that tour of duty I became aware about the true power
of the Commander In Chief during a National Emergency.
Many thanks,
Billy C
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