Upon arriving in Crockett, VA, we find that 22A is lined west. We wait around for a few minutes and before long 22A shows up. Here 22A is pictured passing through the beautiful wide-open fields of Crockett. The imposing mountains made for a beautiful backdrop for the train.
NS 7615 does the honers on being the DPU on this days 22A through the beautiful fields of Crockett. This is the longest passing siding on the Pulaski District. Long trains often have long waits here for any apposing trains on the District. This is one of the the few spots in SWVA that one can fit the entire train into their photograph.
Next, We barely beat 22A's DPU into the hamlet of Marion, VA. Here 22A will be heading into the passing siding to meeting eastbound 720.
After about 45 minutes of waiting, NS 720 is finally heard coming into scanner range. We document the train passing the beautifully restored Marion depot.
The Conductor on 22A, does a roll-by inspection of 720 of Marion.
After 720 clears Marion, NS 22A leaves the siding and proceeds westward toward Bristol.
Later on in the afternoon, 23G charges up grade out of Marion with NS 7711 leading. Cold weather clouds start to gather and are looming over the Marion community.
NS 23G charges through the hamlet of Rural Retreat with the sun barely peeking through the clouds.
NS 7599 shoves on the rear of 23G past the rough looking Rural Retreat depot. This is the very location O Winston Link shot at many years before. The depot has really went down hill since his time. The town has considered moving it or tearing it down completely. For now, it makes for a interesting photo prop.
We catch 23G once more in Max Meadows before calling it a day. 23G is about 2 hours from arriving in Roanoke for a crew change.
Please check out my video from this day http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RTW2KZsmxp4 . Thanks for viewing!!!
