On Saturday, December 13, Virginia Railway Express (VRE), Virginia’s commuter rail service, held its 18th annual “Operation Lifesaver Santa Trains.” Santa, Mrs. Claus, and Santa’s helpers rode the rails and walked through the train to meet, greet and hand out candy canes. Helper elves passed out Operation Lifesaver railroad safety information coloring books and carolers from Riverbend, Chancellor, West Potomac, Thomas Edison, Stonewall Jackson, and Osbourn Park High School choirs made sure everyone was entertained. VRE operated 13 sold-out Santa Trains while entertaining nearly 9,000 attendees from the Manassas, Burke Centre, Fredericksburg and Woodbridge VRE stations during this annual holiday event.
“You can’t believe how much happiness VRE Santa Trains deliver until you experience it yourself” said Doug Allen, VRE’s Chief Executive Officer. “Whether you are a staff member working the trains, a parent, or a caroler, there is no greater satisfaction than seeing the excitement of children’s faces when they meet Santa. It’s rare when we get the opportunity to educate people about railroad safety while spreading holiday spirit but that’s what Santa Trains are all about,” said Mr. Allen.
VRE Operation Lifesaver Santa Trains great success
