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Berkshire Hathaway’s Union Tank Car Company (UTLX), a leading rail tank car manufacturer and lessor, has donated a full-size rail tank car to strengthen hands-on training for the Chicago Fire Department, the Calumet City Fire Department, and neighboring municipalities. The 43-foot-long, 15-foot-high, 61,100-pound car has been permanently installed at the Calumet City Public Safety Training Center.
An official handover ceremony will be held December 8 at the center, located at 24 State St. in Calumet City. The addition of a real tank car will allow first responders to practice emergency response techniques involving rail equipment and hazardous materials in a realistic setting.
UTLX, headquartered in Chicago along with parent company Marmon Holdings, emphasized the importance of supporting local emergency personnel. “This rail tank car donation will provide invaluable hands-on training opportunities for Chicagoland firefighters and emergency personnel,” said Neil Finn, President of UTLX.
First responders say the resource will significantly enhance preparedness. “Rail incidents are complex, and firefighters need to understand the real hazards they’ll face in the field,” said Lt. Matt Drew of the Chicago Fire Department. “This rail tank car gives us the ability to practice safe, methodical response techniques before we ever encounter a true emergency, which ultimately protects both our firefighters and the community.”
© 2025 David Mazor
Disclosure: David Mazor is a freelance writer focusing on Berkshire Hathaway. The author is long in Berkshire Hathaway, and this article is not a recommendation on whether to buy or sell the stock. The information contained in this article should not be construed as personalized or individualized investment advice. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.