Eastern Railroad Discussion > Special Paint Trifecta

This afternoon I came across CSXT 1776 'Spirit of the Armed Forces and CSXT 3419 backing their vehicle train into the west end of Indiana Harbor Belt's Gibson Yard in Hammond, IN. The IHB is parallel to Willow Court at this location. They shoved all the way out of photo range and while I was pondering my next move, I heard horns from the west and saw an eastbound NS train crossing the IHB and Willow Court at CP Hohman. The NS ex-NKP main curves southeasterly from Hohman and is only four short blocks from where I was watching 1776. So a quick run down Maywood Street got me in position for the train. To my surprise, the lead engine was NS 8100, the NKP Heritage locomotive. Nice! I think this train is symboled BH20 (any corrections appreciated) and is a regular visitor in Hammond between 3 and 5 pm. It also normally has a DPU on the rear. While I was musing about the chances for another heritage engine, the DPU came into view and... tuned out to be NS 1070, the Wabash Heritage locomotive. Nice way to end the day before heading back to the western 'burbs. 

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Here's a view of CSXT 1776's cab. The flag window treatment is cool. 

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Nice Threesome! The CSX camoflage job always makes my eyes hurt but I appreciate the veteran's tribute, I am one.
I just think the really small "blocks" of camoflage could have been bigger to prevent eye pain. Probably just me. It won't keep me awake tonight.
Thanks for sharing!
Gonut

That 1776 paint job looks like GM's waterbased peeling vehicle paint years ago

Three great catches. And thank you for taking the time to do some work to post nice, sharp, clear images.

The camo paint leaves something to be desired. The concept is great, and I sincerely appreciate the salute to veterans - thank you, CSX. But the design, well. ouch. It looks like a badly worn paint job in need of time in the shop and a repaint. And as such, the net effect is not as honoring to vets as it could be, even if it literally copies very effective field camouflage that they may have used. Another design would have better matched intent to actual effect. Vets will "get it", but will the general public? And they are also the ones who should be the focus to be reminded of the honor due to our veterans.

MC