The world's largest steam engine, the UP Big Boy 4014, began its trek from Roseville, CA to Sparks, NV. The Rail Auxiliary Team positioned itself at various locations between Verdi and Sparks, NV, with the sole purpose of keeping people safe as the Big Boy steamed on by. Unfortunately, the Big Boy experienced a disruption to its schedule when it hit a downed tree just outside of Auburn, CA.  Even with the three plus hour delay, the RATs held their positions while offering train safety education and updates on the progress of the Big Boy. With this being a "once in a lifetime event" or a "bucket list item" for many people, the RATs were inundated with hordes of people, many of those either ignorant of safety around train tracks or they just didn't care - displaying an attitude of I can do what I want and stand where I want. Through education, calm communication and warnings about track safety, the RATs were able to keep onlookers and the train crew safe with no incidents. Union Pacific was very appreciative of the safety work our Rail Auxiliary Team provided. Go RATs!

          ​