There was a time, long before video games, when model train sets were a welcome gift for kids, especially for boys, especially at Christmas.

Most were simple, with a small track and just a few cars. But Beach Haven resident Ron Armour’s childhood experience was far more intricate.

Shortly after returning from World War II his father purchased Lionel model trains and they quickly became a staple holiday tradition in the Armour household. Little Ron soon became enthralled by the trains and learned how to set up and run the wires for the set.