Wow, thank you so much. It truly has been an exciting time following the progress of the rebuild. I know I am not alone in my excitement over the restoration and soon to come operation of the 611. I and so many others have donated what they could to help this project along, and starting this thread as a way to keep everyone up to date has been a true privilege....and fun!
I would like to thank all of you that have shared your photos and stories and experiences in the thread, all of you have made the thread a real treat to read.
I would also like to thank the extremely hard work and dedication of the Fireup611 committee and all of those who have volunteered there time and efforts to bring back what I feel is the finest passenger locomotive to grace the rails, without you all of us would not get to experience the thrill of seeing the J in steam again, and for a whole new generation for the first time ever. I think a very large thank you needs to be given to Norfolk Southern for supporting this project, their generous donation and allowing the 611 to participate in the 21st Century steam program. Thank you NS!
And a big thank you needs to go to the North Carolina Transportation Museum for the use of their facilities and for allowing such wonderful access to the 611 during the rebuild. All of you have made a dream become a reality.
And finally to the Virginia Museum of Transportation. Your care and vision have brought this full circle and today the 611 is in steam and is carrying on the legacy of the Norfolk & Western. The 611 is indeed a thoroughbred!
Thank you again for the kind words!