I rode Amtrak's special "Farewell/Last Ride of the AEM7" today. This was the last revenue run for these engines on Amtrak after 40 years and over 220 million miles. It was an early morning departure from Washington's Union Station, a northbound sprint to Halethorpe, MD where we were treated to a photo "walk-by" while a regular Amtrak Regional gave us a photo "run-by" on an adjacent track. After Halethorpe it was straight to Philly where the train was turned, catered Jimmy John's subs brought on board for everyone. On the way back to Washington, a stop was made for about 2.5 hours at the Wilmington, DE shop complex where dozens of Amtrak employees where on hand to answer questions and show the public their facility.
To me, it was very clear that all Amtrak employees involved with pulling this off went above and beyond. Upon boarding, we were given literature on the AEM7 and Wilmington shop to read and learn about as well as technical literature and content on the new ACS64 locomotives that are now in service. Even more clear was the pride these people took in their railroad, equipment and jobs. Very clear.
Amtrak CEO Joe Boardman's private rail car was on the train and he was shaking hands and taking photos with the crowd at every opportunity.
Amtrak also gave out special AEM7 Farewell lapel pins and on the way back, an auction for leftover AEM7 parts - over 100 people walked away with authentic AEM7 number boards, bells, headlights, and more!
A GREAT trip. Lots of fun, great people, great experience and one not likely to be repeated. It was a sold out, 9 car train I believe. I think the total ridership was about 500.
Particularly interesting, to me at least, was the truck and wheel shop. They had a set of wheels from many different locos and cars and we saw their truck test rig where they can test bearing temps, etc and proper operation before sending them out on the railroad. Very interesting. An Amtrak switcher truck was being rebuilt (photo above) and an Acela (at least that is what it looked like) truck was on the test rig. Very interesting!