My 42 Year Summer Job

    A Railroad memoir

 

“Whatever happened to the cabooses?” That question and many other technical and cultural changes are illustrated by a career that originated with a detour on a seasonal steel gang. The plan gets derailed by a baby and options are scarce. Burlington Northern Railway is prospering and a life on the rails becomes a viable pursuit.

LM Kuntz describes a troubled past that eventually leads to becoming radically saved, which changes everything. His marriage, and spiritual growth grow along his often-dangerous path.

My Summer Job recounts a frontline involvement, noting the humor, the comradery and the big moments—with no shortage of adversaries. He encounter’s Jesus during a low point and his life is never the same. His railroad experience defines how technology and policy evolved, from covered wagon diesel engines to modern intelligent locomotives, from four and five-person teams down to two-man crews. Les also offers how-to descriptions and industry insight, from spiking a tie to stopping a 16K ton train. Despite life threatening weather, derailments, and fatalities, his journey continues as God leads, pursuing a position that fits. After an Amtrak stint and a return to the high prairies, the westward quest revisits Southern California.

An hour from the ocean; in the shadow of the San Bernardino Mountain, close to family, with year-round golf, seems to be a perfect place and destiny seems complete—except for one more obstacle… can he survive the inquest?