I was aware of this about 3 months ago when Steve first contacted me, but waited to post anything until there was some media coverage. This was in the Extra section of today's Roanoke Times........

http://www.roanoke.com/extra/cornershot/wb/261820

Corner shot

All those who teamed up to rescue the "Lost Engines of Roanoke" have received recognition for their efforts from an unlikely source -- the U.S. military.

The National Railway Historical Society, the Virginia Museum of Transportation, Goshen train buff Will Harris and the Railroad Museum of Virginia in Portsmouth, who all worked together to rescue the old Norfolk and Western steam locomotives from a Roanoke scrap yard in 2009, were recently awarded U.S. flags that flew over Camp Taji in Iraq.

"They were honoring us for defending America by preserving its history," said railway society member Gary Gray. The gift was apparently arranged by steam buff and U.S. Air Force Senior Master Sgt. Steven Boonstra of New Jersey, who kept tabs on the unfolding "lost engines" saga from Iraq.

In an e-mail to Gray, Boonstra said news of the rescues "put a smile on my face. ... As I serve my country by defending her freedom, you have all defended and preserved our history. Let these flags remind everyone that defending this country comes in many different ways and you have all done your part."

Gray said the railway society will display its flag at the old Virginian Railway Station, which is slated for renovation. "It really, truly is an honor."

-- Kevin Kittredge

Bev Fitzpatrick with VMT got this on one of the local TV stations

http://www.wdbj7.com/news/wdbj7-story-v ... um=twitter


The stories pretty much say it all. Our flag was presented at the August regular meeting. It was received with a long and loud round of applause. VMT has aquired the flagpole from the now demolished Roanoke National Guard Armory (replaced by a site outside of town). They will be using their flag for special events and holidays. Will Harris has possession of the Portsmouth flag, he is planning to present it to the Railroad Museum of Virginia at their opening ceremonies, which are supposed to take place sometime later this Fall.
Steve, again "Thank You". This means a lot to all of us, the "grunts" at 9th St and especially the Veterans and children of Veterans.

Regards,

Gary, It was my pleasure to get everyone those flags. Like I said you guys did what many, including me, thought was impossible! Tell everyone enjoy the flags!

Absolutely awesome story!! I have never looked at rail preservation from this point of view, but it is pretty cool that Mr. Boonstra followed the Lost Engines story like he did and recognizes the efforts of Gary, Will and all of the others involved.

Of course, a big thank you and salute right back to Mr. Boonstra and his fellow soldiers for doing what they do and allowing us the freedoms to be a part of rail preservation.