This Burlington Northern SDP40 locomotive is another one that just missed making the Editor's Choice list.

The color scheme and lettering is all very tasteful– a solid dark blue base and red on white stripes that are bold without becoming overbearing.

The "1976" re-numbering in the same "Spirit of '76" script is a nice touch.

This entry from the Belt Railway Company is a little lacking.

Sure, they painted it red, white, and blue, and in a pattern that vaguely suggests the flag of our great Nation.

But where are the stars? How about an eagle or two? Is that too much to ask?

This Long Island Rail Road GP 38-2 is an even weaker effort. Here's what we learn from the back of this postcard:

Standard colors are blue and white, but No. 252 had red substituted for the middle blue band in honor of the nation's Bicentennial.

Well, there you have it. Don't knock yourselves out, boys.

I think they are saving up the stars for the tricentennial.