Intended to replace the Memphis Special as the preeminent carrier on the Washington–Memphis run, one of its critical duties was the transportation of mail for the Railway Mail Service division of the Post Office Department. The train's almost immediate success was further bolstered by a sharp rise in passenger traffic during World War II.
Intended to take over the Memphis Special as the leading carrier on the Washington–Memphis route, one of its key responsibilities was transporting mail for the Railway Mail Service division of the Post Office Department. The train's rapid success was also supported by a significant increase in passenger traffic during World War II.