Local veteran and business owner beats cancer after radiation exposure nearly 60 years ago

SARASOTA, Fla. (WWSB) – Bob Horne is the owner of ‘Bob’s Train’, a diner and museum… you guessed it, in a train.

The high spirited Navy Veteran has many stories to tell, with three entire train cars filled with circus, war, and Sarasota memorabilia.

“In 1962 I was in the Navy and we were volunteered by Uncle Sam to go work some atomic test bombs, we tested a total of 36 bombs within that series.”

In 2021, Horne finally received an Atomic Veterans Certificate from the United States Department of Defense, for services he was never allowed to speak about openly. Sadly, because of these services and radiation from atomic bombs, a tumor developed in the top half of Horne’s spine, causing his temporary limp.

Horne says the pain got worse last year and his daughters forced him to go to the doctor, that’s when he initially found out about the tumor, caused by the proximity of the atomic bombs. Horne got the tumor removed in September and is currently recovering.

“I’m recovering hopefully to 100%, they say maybe in a year, but I’m trying to do it in three days.”

Bob has lived a full life, with much more to come, “So my goal is at least 108, and I’m gonna do it.” He says his keys to live are being active and always learning.

This 82-year-old is recovering, but he isn’t taking any more breaks. In 2025, Bob Horne is working to restore a piece of Sarasota history, John and Mable Ringling’s train car.

You can visit ‘Bob’s Train’ for lunch Monday through Friday, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., and for Sunday brunch 10:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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