US Army Railroad (1940's) video link

[StorkNest]

Shows what looks to be mostly or all North Africa.
One diesel swticher.
At least one steamer.
Work done on railcars.
Work done on steam engines (yes one guy puts a locomotive wheel on fire, don't know why).
Yard and mainline work.
Train orders being given.
Fixing a section of broken track.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=e9a_1241081839

 

[UP5521]

Shows what looks to be mostly or all North Africa.
One diesel swticher.
At least one steamer.
Work done on railcars.
Work done on steam engines (yes one guy puts a locomotive wheel on fire, don't know why).
Yard and mainline work.
Train orders being given.
Fixing a section of broken track.
http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=e9a_1241081839

Yes and you mentioned fire for a steam engine, that would have to be for the steel tires or[Shoes the steam locomotive wears to protect it's drive wheels that is contained inside!

 

[transitguard]

The fire is most likely to expand the steel tire so that it can be slid onto the wheel. When the tire cools it fits snugly on the wheel.