The Eagle Cap Excursion Train honored Veterans and public safety officers with a train ride down the Grande Ronde River in northeast Oregon last Saturday, November 7. The ride was free for Veterans, fire fighters and law enforcement officers, and a guest. The 3.5 hour trip left Elgin and followed the gently flowing river through roadless canyon country, passing jagged basalt cliffs and towering mountains that hug the track. The last shades of autumn were evident in the shrubs along the banks and dark green forests contrasted with the clouds and spots of sunshine. Cookies and coffee were served to the 190 passengers by volunteer car hosts.

This scenic train ride is known as the Two Rivers during the regular excursion season because it follows the Grande Ronde River down to its confluence with the Wild & Scenic Wallowa River, then goes up the shores of the Wallowa a few miles before returning to Elgin. The train season begins in the spring and runs through October. Go to www.eaglecaptrain.com for information and photos of the train and watch for the release of the 2009 schedule in December.

The trip was made possible by a generous donation from Anderson-Perry & Associates, with additional contributions from La Grande Les Schwab Tire Center, Wallowa Union Railroad, C & M Country Store, D & B Supply, Mark Davidson, Bill's Quik Mart, Albertson's Bakery, and the Friends of the Joseph Branch. We thank them and especially thank our guests for their service.