The incident happened around noon on June 17. Reinhad, a professional driver with Halvor Lines Inc. out of Superior, Wisconsin, had only been with the company for two weeks when she came upon a vehicle stopped at a weigh station exit. The truck was blocking traffic, and something didn’t seem right.

“I said, ‘Are you okay?’” Reinhad recalled. “He couldn’t talk; I said, ‘Do you need medical attention?’ It took me forever to call 911. Can you believe 911 never answered?”

Unable to get through to emergency dispatch, she reached out to a nearby county’s state police, who then connected her with the right responders. Reinhad stayed with the man, who was on oxygen, until help arrived. First responders were able to assist the driver, and state troopers moved his truck safely out of the way.

“He was an older gentleman — hopefully he was okay,” she added.

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) honored Reinhad with a Highway Angel award for her actions. Since the program began in 1997, the TCA has recognized nearly 1,500 truck drivers who’ve gone above and beyond to help others while on the road. Sponsors, including EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, support the program.

Reinhad’s quick thinking and willingness to step in highlight the kind of support truckers often provide for one another—especially in moments when every second counts.

Image and Source: Truckers News

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Behind the wheel was Barry Carlson, a longtime Hy-Vee driver whose face now graces the side of one of the company’s semi-trailers. After 40 years on the road, Barry received one of the company’s highest honors: becoming the face of Hy-Vee’s “helpful smile” campaign on a moving tribute that spans nine Midwestern states.

But this wasn’t just about a photo on a trailer. Barry had the chance to drive that very truck into his hometown store, where friends, coworkers, family, and corporate leaders from Hy-Vee were waiting to welcome him back. As a special keepsake, Barry was given a miniature replica of the truck that now carries his image across the region.

Source: Hy-Vee

Hy-Vee has revived its long-standing tradition of honoring employees who’ve dedicated more than four decades of service. Barry is among 18 team members whose photos are now featured on the sides of Hy-Vee trucks. These rigs are more than just delivery vehicles—they’re a rolling tribute to the commitment and care of some of the company’s most loyal employees.

As they make their way across Iowa and beyond, these trucks will deliver more than groceries—they’ll carry the story of people like Barry Carlson, whose “helpful smile” has been part of the journey for 40 years and counting.

Source: The Trucker
Images Source: Hy-Vee

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This prestigious recognition celebrates truck drivers who go above and beyond in acts of kindness, courage, and courtesy while out on the road. For Combs, his commitment to helping others was clear when he intervened to protect a fellow motorist in distress.

A Heroic Display of Awareness on I-81

It was the early hours of April 23 when Combs, who has been a truck driver with ABF Freight based in Fort Smith, Arkansas, found himself traveling northbound along Interstate 81 in Virginia. The stretch between Roanoke and Harrisonburg is often bustling with vehicles, yet Combs’ attentiveness allowed him to notice something unusual.

“I thought it was chains dragging,” Combs recalled after observing sparks flying from a GMC pickup truck just ahead of him. “When I saw it sparking a little too much, I was flashing my lights on and off; I was trying to get him to stop before he passed another truck, and then the sparks got even worse.”

His persistence paid off. The driver of the pickup noticed the signals and began pulling over, just in time for a situation that could have turned disastrous.

Preventing a Catastrophe

Combs’ instincts were spot-on. Moments after the pickup truck began to pull off to the side, it lost its right front wheel.

“I knew something was gonna happen,” Combs said, describing the chaotic scene. “Sparks went everywhere. It went from a few sparks to, when it hit the ground, it was like somebody set a fire underneath it.”

The situation could have escalated further, but fortune favored preparation that day. Combs, a seasoned driver with 16 years of experience, stopped immediately to ensure everyone was safe. Inside the pickup truck were the driver and two passengers—thankfully, none of them were injured.

Realizing the potential fire risk from the sparks, Combs checked the vehicle to confirm it hadn’t ignited. For him, taking action in emergencies is second nature. “I’m always gonna stop,” he emphasized.

Celebrating Heroes of the Highway

Stan Combs’ story is just one example of the incredible acts of service recognized by the TCA’s Highway Angel program. Since its launch in 1997, the program has honored nearly 1,500 professional truck drivers for their extraordinary efforts on the road.

Each honoree exemplifies the values of kindness, responsibility, and vigilance—qualities that are vital in the trucking profession. TCA’s ability to showcase these drivers is made possible thanks to program sponsors like presenting sponsor EpicVue, along with DriverFacts and Northland Insurance.

The Legacy of Being a Highway Angel

For truck drivers like Combs, recognition as a Highway Angel isn’t just about the award—it’s about reflecting the values that define the industry. Stories like his serve as inspiration, reminding us of the humanity behind the wheel of these massive vehicles.

Image Source: ABF Freight
Source: Truckers News

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Rescuing in the Line of Duty

On April 22, at 12:25 p.m. in Archdale, North Carolina, Netusil, a driver for Bay & Bay Transportation based in Eagan, Minnesota, stepped into action when he saw an older model pickup truck engulfed in flames on the shoulder of Highway 85.

“I pulled over and ran back with my fire extinguisher,” he said.

The fire caused significant damage to the truck, leaving it totaled. The driver of the pickup sustained injuries to his hand after the fire broke out. The cause of the blaze was traced to a plugged-in cell phone.

“The guy’s truck was totaled,” Netusil noted. “And he definitely burned part of his hand in the fire.”

A Legacy of Heroism

Netusil’s courage and quick action can be attributed to his family’s legacy. With a father and grandfather who were both firefighters, stepping up to help others is in his DNA.

“I don’t like the idea of people losing stuff because I didn’t feel like pulling over,” he explained. “It just doesn’t sit right with me.”

Netusil, who has been a truck driver for eight years, exemplifies the selflessness and bravery that the TCA Highway Angel program recognizes.

Learn More

To discover more stories of heroic truck drivers celebrated as TCA Highway Angels, visit the TCA Highway Angel page.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: TCA

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Jeremy Steger Shines at the Competition

Jeremy Steger, an XPO driver, earned the prestigious grand championship title as well as the top spot in the four-axle class. His outstanding performance solidifies XPO’s excellence in the industry.

Recognition for Rookie of the Year

Garo Boghossian, representing FedEx Freight, was honored as Rookie of the Year, showcasing impressive skill and promise as a new contender in the competition.

XPO Grabs Team Trophy

The team trophy was awarded to XPO, emphasizing the company’s strong presence at this year’s championship.

Event Results Breakdown

Here’s a quick look at all the winners from each category:

Step Van

• 1st: Matthew Callis, Old Dominion
• 2nd: Roland Bates, FedEx Freight
• 3rd: John Summerfeld, UPS

Straight Truck

• 1st: Brent Glasenapp, FedEx
• 2nd: Richard Truchon, XPO
• 3rd: Ben Messenger, XPO

3 Axle

• 1st: Andy Rynearson, XPO
• 2nd: Mike Dicosola, FedEx Freight
• 3rd: Doug Jawson, FedEx Freight

4 Axle

• 1st: Jeremy Steger, XPO
• 2nd: Garo Boghossian, FedEx Freight
• 3rd: Paul Smith, FedEx Freight

5 Axle

• 1st: Ryatt Hirschfeld, Old Dominion
• 2nd: Anthony Biarro, Walmart
• 3rd: Raj Deerpalsing, Kwik Trip

Sleeper

• 1st: Bill Minor, Walmart
• 2nd: Terry Tillen, Walmart
• 3rd: Don Knocke

Twins

• 1st: Connor Dent, FedEx Freight
• 2nd: Nick Jarntowski, Old Dominion
• 3rd: Richard Chalebois

Tank

• 1st: Jeff Langenhahn, XPO
• 2nd: Shawn Modaff, FedEx Freight
• 3rd: Matt Boenisch, FedEx Freight

Flatbed

• 1st: Codie Gadke, FedEx Freight
• 2nd: Anthony Angeli, McLane
• 3rd: Duane Staveness, FedEx Freight

National Championship Awaits

All first-place winners have qualified to compete in the National Truck Driving and Step Van Driving Championships, in Minneapolis from August 20-23. Best of luck to all competitors gearing up for the national stage!

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Jen Koss Photos

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National Carriers Inc. (NCI), based in Irving, Texas, is shining the spotlight on four exceptional drivers who have been named the first finalists for the 2025 Driver of the Year. These finalists exemplify outstanding customer service, a commitment to safety, and a positive attitude, setting an industry gold standard.

Monthly Honors Lead to Prestigious Recognition

“Each month, National Carriers selects an outstanding driver to recognize for their continued contributions to our company’s success,” said Ed Kentner, NCI spokesman. “When making each selection, we consider service, safety, attitude, and appearance. These driving professionals transcend the requirements for superior performance and are the elite of the “Elite” fleet.”

The 2025 monthly honorees, now finalists for Driver of the Year, are Bradley Rickman, Ty Gurr, Ronald Hotchkiss, and Ken Bohn. Each has received a $1,000 recognition bonus and a shot at the coveted Driver of the Year award, which includes a $10,000 prize.

Meet the Finalists

Bradley Rickman

Named January 2025 Driver of the Month, Bradley Rickman has been an NCI “Elite” fleet driver since 2017. Based in northwest Oklahoma, Rickman specializes in transporting cattle hides from National Beef Packing Company’s facilities in Kansas to Missouri. With over one million accident-free miles under his belt, Rickman is a pillar of safety and professionalism.

Ty Gurr

Ty Gurr, a Florida resident from Ocala, earned the February Driver of the Month title. Joining NCI in 2021 as a company driver for refrigerated freight, Gurr operates across the lower 48 states. His dedication to safety and exceptional customer service has quickly elevated his status within the “Elite” fleet.

Ronald Hotchkiss

March’s Driver of the Month, Ronald Hotchkiss, an owner-operator who has worked with NCI for 12 years. A veteran of the U.S. Army, Hotchkiss focuses on serving Midwest customers and is well-known for his professional demeanor and polished appearance.

Ken Bohn

Representing April 2025, Ken Bohn is a U.S. Army veteran who joined NCI in 2019. Operating within the 48-state refrigerated lease division, Bohn’s commitment to safety and customer service sets him apart. His willingness to go above and beyond has made him a standout member of the NCI team.

A Commitment to Excellence

NCI’s Driver of the Year program represents their ongoing dedication to recognizing and rewarding exemplary performance within the trucking industry. With these Driver of the Month honorees now vying for the annual title, the competition highlights the exceptional contributions made by NCI drivers across the country.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the 2025 Driver of the Year, as NCI continues to celebrate excellence within its “Elite” fleet while fostering a culture of safety, service, and professionalism.

Source: The Trucker
Image Source: NCI

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James “JD” Chasteen, Shaw Industries Group; Scott “Scottie” Edwards, Primo Brands Corp.; Kenny White, AutoZone; and Donald “Todd” Young, Marathon Petroleum Co., were recognized for their contributions to the profession, earning the admiration of peers, supervisors, and customers alike. Here’s a closer look at each of these outstanding professionals.

James “JD” Chasteen – 54 Years of Safe Driving

“Being accepted in the Driver Hall of Fame is a huge honor,” says JD. “I strive to exceed expectations and always aim to leave a lasting impression of kindness and professionalism.”

A driver since 1969, Chasteen has amassed an extraordinary 5.8 million miles without accidents, with three million of those miles driven during his 29 years at Shaw Industries Group. His exceptional career includes a commitment to the daily practice of the Smith System of defensive driving and recognition as the National Safety Council’s Best Safe Driver of the Year in 2022.

Outside of work, JD enjoys walking his dog, exploring metal detecting as a hobby, and spending time with his family and church community.

Scott “Scottie” Edwards – Dedicated to Safety and Community

“I strive to maintain a positive attitude and help others. Representing my company and profession with the highest standards is a personal point of pride,” Scottie explains.

Over his 32-year career, primarily spent with Primo Brands Corp., Edwards has driven 3.1 million accident-free miles. Devoted to safety, he keeps his truck immaculate and works tirelessly to mentor peers on fostering a safe work environment.

An active member of his community, Edwards is a volunteer fireman and participates in Wreaths Across America, delivering wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery. When he’s not on the road, he focuses on fitness, family hikes, and quality time with his dog.

Kenny White – Six Decades of Safe Driving Excellence

“I strive to be safe every day because I want to come back to my family and do not want to hurt anyone. I thank God for watching over me each day and keeping me safe,”  says Kenny. With 61 years of driving and 3.5 million miles without accidents or injuries, Kenny’s dedication to safety and preparation is unmatched. His commitment began with his father teaching him to drive and was honed during his military service, where he transported heavy equipment.

Kenny is a family man with two children, seven grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren. He’s also a car enthusiast, active in his church, and president of a local retiree group at his favorite donut shop.

Donald “Todd” Young – Marathon’s Trusted Driver

“Sleep and proper rest have been crucial to my safety,” shares Todd. “I’m always focused on leaving a positive impression for myself and my company.”

For 44 years—with 38 of those at Marathon Petroleum Co.—Todd has achieved over 3 million accident-free miles, bolstered by extensive training in defensive driving and workplace safety. A certified Smith Driving System trainer, he leads by example.

Todd’s dedication to others extends beyond the road as he volunteers with the American Red Cross and participates in disaster relief efforts in his community. He enjoys camping, hunting, and spending time with his family on his days off.

Celebrating Excellence in Trucking

Congratulations to JD, Scottie, Kenny, and Todd for their well-deserved induction into the 2025 NPTC Driver Hall of Fame. These drivers exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, safety, and dedication, reminding us all of the critical role truck drivers play in keeping communities connected and businesses thriving.

Source: FleetOwner
Image: (Left to Right ) James JD Chasteen, Donald “Todd” Young,  Scott Edwards, & Donald “Todd” Young

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The event celebrated excellence across various competition categories. Here are the top three winners in each class:

Step Van

• 1st Place: Ronald Harwood – FedEx Express
• 2nd Place: Luciano Amorim – FedEx Express
• 3rd Place: Elizabeth Landreth – FedEx Express

Twin

• 1st Place: Dan Istre – XPO
• 2nd Place: Beau Bonds – Old Dominion
• 3rd Place: Cody Tucker – FedEx Freight

Tank Truck

• 1st Place: Michael Heiner – Old Dominion
• 2nd Place: Drew Coulter – Oak Harbor
• 3rd Place: Craig Beaudin – XPO

Straight Truck

• 1st Place: William Nolan – Old Dominion
• 2nd Place: Randall Schwasinger – FedEx Freight
• 3rd Place: Joshua Jetton – XPO

Sleeper

• 1st Place: Tyler Hill – XPO
• 2nd Place: Scott Colwell – Simplot
• 3rd Place: Mark Tomasetti – Peninsula

Flatbed

• 1st Place: Adam Heim – FedEx Freight
• 2nd Place: William Hill – Old Dominion
• 3rd Place: Mike Young – Arlo G Lott

5 Axle

• 1st Place: Chad Aronhalt – Walmart
• 2nd Place: Darrik Fong – FedEx Freight
• 3rd Place: Deric Witt – Simplot

4 Axle

• 1st Place: Jeffery Halford – XPO
• 2nd Place: Scott Hansen – Old Dominion
• 3rd Place: Reuben Riddle – Old Dominion

3 Axle

• 1st Place: Ben Scholes – XPO
• 2nd Place: Matthew Housley – FedEx Freight
• 3rd Place: Mark VanBlaricom – Old Dominion

Following their impressive performances, Dan Istre and the winners of each competition category will advance to the National Truck Driving Championships, which will take place in Minneapolis from August 20 to 23. They will face off against more than 430 of the nation’s top professional drivers at this prestigious event.

Congratulations to all the winners for their exceptional skill and professionalism!

Source: Truckers News
Source: Idaho Trucking Association

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Matyka, a skilled flatbed driver, began his career with Roehl Transport in March 1984. He joined the company after hearing great things from a friend who had recently signed on. Roehl was a much smaller operation at that time, employing around 140 drivers. Early in his career, Matyka remembers connecting with another Roehl driver over the CB radio during a Michigan route. That driver was none other than Rick Roehl, who has since risen to become the company’s CEO, leading a workforce that now exceeds 3,000 team members.

“Alan demonstrates our cornerstone value of safety with every mile he drives. Thank you for your commitment, professionalism and dedication,” said CEO Rick Roehl, praising Matyka’s remarkable accomplishment.

A Lifelong Passion for Driving

Growing up on a farm in Wisconsin, Matyka discovered his passion for driving at a young age. Whether it was navigating a tractor, maneuvering a lawn mower, or hitting the road in a truck, driving came naturally to him. “Being a truck driver just fit,” Matyka explained. “I’ve got to have a steering wheel in my hands. You can always look back and see what you’ve done.”

Throughout his career, Matyka remained committed to constant improvement. He kept a close eye on other drivers, learning from their actions and finding smarter ways to approach challenges. This growth mindset helped him achieve the incredible feat of 5 million accident-free miles, making him only the second driver in Roehl’s history to accomplish this.

Reflecting on his decades behind the wheel, Matyka shared, “Everything you’ve got in life is attributed to having a good, steady job.”

What’s Next for Matyka?

With an illustrious career now behind him, Matyka looks forward to spending more time at home, focusing on projects around his property. That love for driving hasn’t disappeared, though. Whether on the highway or in his backyard, Matyka will always enjoy being behind the wheel.

“I’m going to go home and mow the grass and watch it grow for once,” he joked.

Source:  Truckers News
Source: Roehl Transport

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