Recognizing Two Distinguished Careers on the Birmingham Terminal Railway

Chief Mechanical Officer John Herron and Track Inspector Gary Harville recently retired after a combined 75 years of service to the Birmingham Terminal Railway (BHRR).

Both began their careers at the Birmingham Southern Railroad, a short line later acquired by Watco in 2012 and renamed the BHRR. Herron started in 1980, and in 1989 Harville joined the team. Their advanced knowledge is just one reason why their teammates will miss them.

General Manager David Tarwater said, “John and Gary have seen and experienced it all. I hate to lose them. They are impossible to replace.”

John Herron

Locomotive Supervisor Michael Marino and Roadmaster Kris Colley will also miss working alongside these two team members.

A natural entertainer, Herron plays the saxophone for the band Kool Kats. Marino recently recalled seeing him perform. He said, ”John works hard and plays hard. A while back he played the saxophone for the entire team to listen to and enjoy. That’s just the kind of person he is.”

Gary Harville

As for Harville, his teammates find him to be a trusted adviser. It’s a trait he’s developed after years of serving as a full-time pastor. Colley said, “Gary is a trusted counselor to all that know him. I’m thankful to have worked with him and to have him as my friend.”

To mark their retirements, the BHRR presented Herron with a personalized brass locomotive and Harville with a watch. What’s next for these two? Herron plans to continue playing with the Kool Kats while also enjoying life on the water with his wife, Suzy. Harville will continue serving as a full-time pastor at Mount Zion Baptist Church.