BNSF News

Holiday Express Begins 2011 Tour

2011-12-05

BNSF's 2011 Holiday Express has started its six-state tour, spreading cheer to military families in Minnesota, Illinois, Kansas, Wisconsin and the Dakotas.

This year's tour kicked off in St. Paul, Minn., and is making its way west. About 2,200 soldiers and family members are expected to take a train ride. BNSF conducts the annual tour to show appreciation for the service and sacrifices of military personnel and their families.

The vintage passenger train takes members of the military and their families for a 90-minute train ride. Children have a chance to visit with Santa and receive a special Holiday Express ornament.

"This is a great opportunity for these service men and women to take their families on a special ride and spend time together," said Andrew Johnsen, assistant vice president, State Government Affairs. "Many of these soldiers have recently returned from deployment. In some instances, the soldier is still deployed, and this is an opportunity for us to show support to the family members at home."

BNSF also provides the trips in honor of the BNSF employees who have served in the military.

A variety of executives, including Chairman and CEO Matt Rose, participate in one or more rides. In LaCrosse, Wis., special guests included Major Gen. Don Dunbar, commander of the Wisconsin National Guard, and Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker. In Downers Grove, Ill., special guests included Illinois U.S. Rep. Dan Lipinski and U.S. Rep. Judy Biggert.

During this year's Holiday Express, checks from the BNSF Foundation totaling $110,000 will be distributed to a variety of nonprofit groups who provide support to military families. These organizations focus on helping military households with minor and major emergencies while a loved one is deployed.

Click here to see pictures.

BNSF Headquarters

BNSF Railway Company
2650 Lou Menk Dr. 2nd Floor
P.O. Box 961057
Fort Worth, TX 76161-0057
Phone: (817) 352-1000

For more information on the company and its transportation solutions, visit the BNSF Web site at www.bnsf.com