Medal of Honor Train Reenactment

RINGGOLD, GA. (WDEF) – The Great Locomotive Chase rolled into Ringgold today, marking the start of the 2025 Medal of Honor Celebration.

Nearly 20 Medal of Honor Recipients and invited guests retraced the daring April 1862 Andrews’ Raid, boarding a CSX train in Atlanta and traveling along the original Western & Atlantic Railroad line to Ringgold, Georgia.

The chase originally involved Union soldiers who seized a train, the General, in an effort to disrupt Confederate supply lines. 

Though the mission failed, it became a defining moment in U.S. military history and led to the very first Medals of Honor being awarded in 1863.

The reenactment concluded at the Historic Ringgold Depot, just miles from where the original raid ended. 

Along the way, community members gathered trackside to wave and celebrate the living history event.

Organizers say the immersive experience not only commemorates the raiders’ bravery but also reinforces Chattanooga’s place as the Birthplace of the Medal of Honor.

On Thursday, October 2, Medal of Honor Recipients will join Blood Assurance at the Tennessee Aquarium in Chattanooga. 

The public is invited to stop by between 9 a.m. and 12 p.m. to donate blood and meet with the Recipients, who will be available to share their stories and values of courage, sacrifice, and service.