MISSOULA, Mont. – In honor of veterans across Montana, Montana Rail Link has unveiled a special locomotive thanking veterans for their service. In the coming weeks, the railroad will unveil a second locomotive thanking all essential workers for their many contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Both locomotives serve as symbols of our appreciation for veterans and essential workers for their loyalty and dedication to this country. The intended route option for these locomotives is to work in regular freight service between Billings, Mont., and Sandpoint, Idaho.
In addition to the tribute locomotives, the Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation, in conjunction with Montana Rail Link, will make a $50,000 donation to Warriors and Quiet Waters and a $50,000 donation to Montana No Kid Hungry.
“Essential workers have played a critical role in keeping our communities healthy and safe during the COVID-19 pandemic,” MRL President Derek Ollmann says. “All essential workers including railroaders, first responders, health care workers, janitorial staff, grocery store clerks and truck drivers have served all of us with dedication and sacrifice.”
“We thank veterans and their families for their collective sacrifice and service,” says Dennis and Phyllis Washington Foundation Executive Director and Vietnam Veteran Mike Halligan. “We’re proud to recognize two of the great organizations that serve our veterans, citizens, and communities across Montana.”
