Interesting that the term "railroader" is more encompassing than the term "trucker". No one would refer to a rates clerk for YRC (for example) as a trucker. That term is reserved for drivers and occasionally the higher ups.
very well said, my Dad never went out on the railroad, worked in yards, freight house and yard office, but he knew what it was like to work in all kinds of weather when he was outside.And had a vital job to do loading freight cars or checking the seals and making sure they had not been tampered with, espec cigs and liquor cars. Had his battery lantern to swing around so he'd be seen, no bright tower lights in those days and steam engines, some co-workers did die when a train backed over them. Mom was glad when he got enough seniority to work in the office, much safer. And the joking around with his co-workers, everyone did have a nickname and some were not so nice. The office was right next to the yards, so there was a lot of action going on and the crews came inside to wait for their trains and shoot the bull. It was like a big frat and Mom could understand too as she had worked for Frisco and so did her dad, uncles and grandpa, who were over the road guys. I grew up with railroading stories and feel like I understand what goes on, even if I never got to work for one myself. No matter what the weather, the trains will get through and especially during WWII when Dad worked and trains ran every few minutes, since Frisco served Ft. Leonard Wood, a huge training base. I know my parents considered themselves railroaders and their RR retirement checks proved it. Dad never lived to retire but Mom got hers and widow's check for Dad.
mudchicken Not sure I would agree with that sentiment. They know the language and they know how to manipulate the system to benefit the railroad. (Alex/ LARams guy was a trainman, but also one of those.)
Not sure I would agree with that sentiment. They know the language and they know how to manipulate the system to benefit the railroad. (Alex/ LARams guy was a trainman, but also one of those.)
Actually I was one of those green eyeshade-type guys from the Revenue Accounting area but I appreciate the props!
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