Al-Kadhim, who lives in Macomb, Michigan, was selected in recognition of his military service, work in trucking and continued involvement with organizations supporting veterans and military families.

From Military Service to Trucking

Before immigrating to the United States, Al-Kadhim worked as an interpreter and translator alongside U.S. Marine Corps and Army units during combat operations.

After becoming a U.S. citizen, he enlisted in the U.S. Army National Guard and trained as a truck driver. He later built a career as a commercial driver and trainer, with a focus on preparing professional drivers for work on the road.

His experience behind the wheel eventually led to plans for a trucking business of his own, and the Cascadia will provide the equipment needed to begin taking that next step.

“What started as a passion for giving back to my community from behind the wheel can now be turned into providing me with the tools to build my own business,” Al-Kadhim said.

Keys to Progress Provides the Truck

Progressive awarded the Freightliner through Keys to Progress, a vehicle donation program that supports veterans and veteran-focused organizations.

Karen Bailo, president of Progressive Commercial Lines, said Al-Kadhim’s military service and work since leaving active service contributed to his selection for the program.

Several organizations also participated in the donation process. Velocity assisted through its commercial vehicle network, while 1-800-Charity Cars provided support with the vehicle donation, title, and registration process. Insurance Auto Auctions and veteran-owned Veracity Research Co. Investigations also contributed to the program, including assistance with recipient selection.

For Al-Kadhim, the truck provides a way to move from working as an experienced commercial driver and trainer toward operating a business of his own.

“I am deeply grateful to Progressive for believing in me and allowing me to pursue my dream of owning my own trucking business,” he said.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: September 23, 2026

Source: Truckers News

Image Source: Progressive, Truckers News

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