I've ridden on trains many a time
Both locals and through ones too
But I wonder if those around me
Knew what the boys up in front had to do
Some are bankers and lawyers and merchants
Who think perhaps tough is their lot
But I wonder if they really had to do it
Could they keep that old engine hot
There are only a few left in the image of man
Who still have claim to the right
To sit on each side of a wild engine cab
And take a train safe through the night
So speak of your heroes who fly through the air
And those upon land and sea
But my hat goes off to the boys up in front
Cause they're the real heroes to me.