The NS 911 sets the stage for a memorable birthday

Johnny Robinson, a young train-lover and aspiring conductor, celebrated a special birthday onboard Norfolk Southern’s Safety Train earlier this month, marking a major milestone for the Richmond boy and his family. When Johnny was just three months old, he was diagnosed with a rare condition requiring extensive hospital stays and medical care. Now happy and healthy thanks to an experimental treatment program, his favorite activity is watching trains pass by with his dad, Peter, and he dreams of one day becoming a conductor.

When Norfolk Southern heard about Johnny’s story and how important every birthday his family gets to celebrate with him is, the company saw an opportunity to help give him a day to remember for his fifth birthday, complete with a tour of the Safety Train, a chance to sit in the train engineer’s seat, and his very own model Norfolk Southern train to practice his railroader skills on.

“His birthdays are always special days for us and you all at Norfolk Southern made his birthday unforgettable today,” said Johnny’s dad, Peter.

Norfolk Southern takes pride in being part of the communities we serve and in celebrating and inspiring future railroaders like Johnny. Learn more about how NS makes a positive impact in its communities here. 

Johnny Robinson, a young train-lover and aspiring conductor, has been living with a rare health condition since he was just three months old. Now, his favorite activity is watching trains pass by with his dad, and he dreams of becoming a conductor one day. 

When Norfolk Southern heard about his story and passion for rail, we wanted to help give him a celebration to remember. Last week, we surprised Johnny with a special birthday celebration, giving him his first up-close experience with a real train surrounded by family and fellow railroaders.