At the time we rode behind 1744 out of Alamosa I had one of those hauntingly beautiful Southern Pacific longbell 6-chime whistles in my collection resting comfortably at home. I had paid the proverbial "arm and a leg" for it but had no way to blow it to hear it so riding behind 1744 and hearing her whistle was a beautiful substitute. Little did we know at the time that in a couple of years 1744 would be sidelined and a job layoff would compel me to sell off my whistle...
Remember to enjoy the experiences of life as they occur as they may never come again. Thanks Earl for the memories, sorry the engine was hard to tolerate.
Dan