It may not act on the request, but I do not doubt that it would listen.

[The train must be aware in some capacity, and there is evidence for decision-making capabilities and for compassion - the addition of the triage car after a number of passengers returned from a mission grievously injured is what stands out in his mind, though there are other instances.]

Though I dislike its practices in that regard, I can understand its reasoning. If it granted every request to return home, who would be left to help?