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

The post Trucker Honored as TCA Highway Angel for Heroic Act appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“Commercial truck drivers are not only at the center of the supply chain industry, but they also act as vigilant guardians of the roads, ready to assist others in need,” stated Joe Burke, vice president of Goodyear North America Commercial business. “For over four decades, the Goodyear Highway Hero Award program has celebrated remarkable contributions of professional truck drivers who have acted selflessly for the good of others on the road.”

If you know a truck driver whose story reflects outstanding courage or compassion, now is the time to put their name forward. The nomination period is open until December 31, and submissions are invited from CDL holders in various capacities, including long-haul, regional delivery, vocational vehicles, and dump trucks. Since it started in 1983, the award has acknowledged those who not only carry out their daily tasks but also enhance highway safety for all.

Award winners and finalists will be honored in 2025, with exciting prizes set for these exceptional individuals. The ultimate winner will receive a cash prize and an unforgettable ride on the legendary Goodyear Blimp. Finalists will also be rewarded with cash prizes in recognition of their commendable actions.

Eligibility Criteria and Nomination Process

To be eligible, nominees should be:

• Full-time commercial drivers with a current CDL

• Residents of either the United States or Canada

• Operators of vehicles with rim sizes exceeding 19 inches

• Recognized for an act of heroism conducted while on duty between January 1 and December 31, 2024

A panel of judges will thoroughly review all nominations, selecting the Highway Hero and up to two finalists based on approved submissions.

For more information, access nomination forms, and review complete eligibility criteria, visit Goodyear’s official Highway Hero Award webpage here.

This initiative reflects Goodyear’s profound respect for the trucking sector, honoring the vital contributions of professional drivers in maintaining road safety and ensuring the seamless operation of supply chains.

Source: The Trucker

The post Goodyear Opens Nominations for 41st Highway Hero Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

In a remarkable display of bravery, George Maxwell, a truck driver from Tampa, Florida, has been recognized with the TCA Highway Angel award for his courageous actions during Hurricane Milton. Working for TransAm Trucking, Inc. based in Olathe, Kansas, Maxwell risked his own safety to rescue a couple stranded during the devastating storm.

According to the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), on October 10 at approximately 3 a.m. in Plant City, Florida, Maxwell faced extreme weather conditions. As the hurricane approached, he headed to the truck parking lot where his semi-truck was parked. Braving the worsening weather, he drove his personal pickup truck to relocate his semi-truck to a safer, elevated location. However, his plan took an unforeseen turn.

“I’m in the truck,” Maxwell recounted. “I’m watching the water come up higher and it’s getting bad.”

With floodwaters rising swiftly, Maxwell abandoned his efforts to save his pickup truck and concentrated on securing his semi-truck. At that moment, he noticed a dire situation—the owners of the truck parking lot were trapped in their house, which was encircled by chest-deep floodwaters.

“They said they thought they were safe there but it’s not safe,” Maxwell noted, as relentless rain poured and winds gusted at nearly 100 miles per hour.

Navigating the perilous waters, Maxwell reached the couple’s home and guided them to his semi-truck. He offered them shelter and drove them to higher ground, ultimately saving them from life-threatening danger. Unfortunately, Maxwell’s personal vehicle was lost to the flood.

“It’s totally gone,” Maxwell reflected about his ruined pickup truck. Despite the loss, he affirmed his decision, stating, “I would do it again. I just did what I’d hope anyone would do for me.”

Since its inception in August 1997, the TCA Highway Angel program has recognized nearly 1,400 professional truck drivers for their exceptional kindness, courtesy, and courage while on duty. The program is supported by sponsors such as EpicVue, DriverFacts, and Northland Insurance, allowing TCA to honor extraordinary drivers like Maxwell.

Source: Truckers News

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