In loving memory of my Dad, Robert H. Ballew,
known to his crews as Boom-Boom,
a thirty-year hogger, a forty-year railroader and union man,
and forever the blueprint of a hard-working father. RIP

...and to Mom, Louise Ballew Mayfield,
for being his real Dispatcher and our real Yard Master
who understood and controlled our actions at every wye
and is still keeping all of us on the right track.

With love, respect and appreciation, Bob Ballew

AND SAFELY FORWARD...

    The GCOR Rule Book is a living, changing and dynamic document. It was created and is continually updated by a changing mix of dedicated people working to assure the safety and a common set of operating rules for the benefit of both the industry and the general public.
    A "catechism" is a detailed discussion of any subject in question and answer format expanding the information and possibilities contained within that subject.
    Many of the common operating practices identified in this organizational and living document have been adopted by railroads of the rest of the world. The Federal Railroad Administration (FRA) requires railroads to adopt operating rules. Many of the railroad companies operating in the United States have signed the General Code of Operating Rules, which are filed with the FRA.
    Mr. Robert E. Lee had served 24 years as the elected Secretary of the General Code Committee, formed by seven major railroads in 1980 to formulate and create a common rule book. It is now known as the GCOR Rule Book.
    He was one of the original creators and co-authors of the common set of rules and operating procedures adopted and implemented by many of the railroads in the United States.
    The First Edition of the GCOR was effective April 27, 1985. The latest revision goes into effect on April 3, 2005.
    Mr. Lee retired on April 1, 2004 as a well-respected and well-liked regional Manager of Operating Rules for the largest freight carrier in the United States, after 30 years in the railroad industry.