In Rememberance of the L.A. Metrolink Train Crash Victims

[Exile]

I was shocked and saddened to learn of the Metrolink accident last week. Before retiring a few years ago, I also commuted to work in Southern California via Metrolink (although on a different line, the Inland Empire--Orange County service for those of you familiar with the area).

I recall two other serious Metrolink accidents, one on the same line as Friday's disaster and the other was on the line that I rode. Although I was not on board the latter train, I knew the conductor who was seriously injured in that wreck. Passengers who ride the same commuter lines day in and day out often bond with each other as well as with the crew and become "train buddies". In fact, I've heard of romantic relationships and even marriages originating this way.

That's why I feel a kinship with all the victims of Friday's crash. Although I didn't know any of them personally, in my heart they were all my train buddies.