Acknowledgments

The older I get, the more I appreciate all that so many others do for Terry and I. Indeed, a grand and glorious trip like this can only happen with the support from many dedicated and caring people. I want to say a heartfelt thanks to Mary Byran, Jeff DeBroeck, Paul Duncan, Mike Gerenday, Frank Keller, Louise (geocaching name "frexweez"), Bill O'Leary, Ryan Rodriguez, Jim Somerville and Eric Swedberg for their assistance and support. Also, I would like to spotlight a few individuals for making our trip extra special:

  • Brice Douglas for all the time and talents invested in putting together the summer solstice Aurora train trip
  • Casey Durand for transportation in Seward
  • Shane Durand for the eye opening tour at Central Environmental, Inc
  • Patrick Durand for the summer solstice Aurora train trip commentary and insightful #557 Restoration Company tour
  • Steve Haupe for the exceptional two-and-a-half-hour tour of the Alaska Railroad diesel and passenger car shops
  • Bill Hess and Sancho II for our fun Trainspotting in Wasilla
  • Robert Krol and Thom Connolly for the tour of the new Whittier Cruise Terminal
  • Mary and Henry Krull for our tour at Whistle Hill, lunch at brew@602 and dinner at Addie Camp. Terry and I are forever grateful.
  • Brian LeRoy for an awesome lunch as well as the tour of Kenai Princess Lodge
  • Rob Nelson, Sarah and Zeus for sharing a truly unforgeable off-grid cabin experience!

A special thanks goes to Terry Combs for her undying love for me and permitting me to follow my passions. She does all the heavy lifting, carrying the baggage, making arrangement for my wheelchair, shopping for supplies, grabbing meals, taking most of the photos, etc. She is the ONLY reason I can make these trips. Terry undergirds me to ensure I can successfully do this trip. None of this would have been possible if not for her limitless energy, "can do" spirit and loving support. I won the lottery when I married her. Note to my wife: To my amazing travel buddy, Terry, thank you for the laughs and unforgettable memories.

Our biggest thanks goes to our dear friends Curt and Renee Rudd. Who in the world would build an extraordinary attached guest apartment for visitors to use? Well, a wonderful couple with hearts as big as all outdoors. We thoroughly enjoyed their bountiful Alaskan dinners! Curt and Renee, you make our hearts smile!

And thanks to all those railfans who have given me assistance and kind words of support over the years! You are truly the "wind beneath my wings."

John Combs
4/8/25

 

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