Announcing the 2021 Transition in Trucking Award Winner: Jimmy Reddell!

“Today we’re going to change someone’s life.”

–Hiring Our Heroes President Eric Eversole

In recognition of his outstanding service in the military and now Over The Road, Jimmy received a brand new Kenworth T680. He is the 2021 recipient of The “Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence,” which honors America’s top rookie military veteran driver.

The Kenworth T680 hasn’t been called a condo on wheels for nothing! 

FASTPORT, Kenworth, and Hiring Our Heroes teamed up for a sixth year to honor our country’s veterans and to make a truck built for comfort. The result: This cerulean blue truck is fully loaded. The all important driver’s seat has top of the line lumbar support that earns the name “Captain’s Chair.” It also features leather throughout, a refrigerator, closet, and a television, but what the truck’s delivery driver really raved about is the mattress quality. 

“This is certainly a special moment for me. I’m very honored to receive the 2021 Transition Trucking award out of all the deserving veterans nominated,” said Reddell. 

“Jimmy Reddell’s accomplished military career instilled attention to detail, punctuality, discipline and keen sense of urgency that have helped him to be successful as a professional truck driver,” said Brad Bentley, FASTPORT president. “Jimmy has a great support network at Stevens Transport to begin his civilian career, and I know he will be a great ambassador for our industry moving forward.”

The program recognizes top drivers who have made the successful transition from active duty to driving for a commercial fleet. “This is so often a thankless job. (Drivers) represent the best in our country. We can’t thank you enough,” said Eversole.

After serving in the military Jimmy wanted to continue to serve his country, and he felt strongly called to serve American families as a driver. He continues to love meeting new people Over The Road, “The idea of travelling/experiencing all 48 states, all the while making a living and serving my country through the delivery of necessary food and goods, was a dream come true..”

“Thanks to Stevens Transport and Angela Horowitz (the company’s vice president of administration and driver resources) for nominating me. Also special thanks to Hiring Our Heroes, FASTPORT and Kenworth for their support of veterans making the transition into the trucking industry. I can’t wait to get the Kenworth T680 out on the road.”

The runner ups: James Rose and Chris Slindee both received checks for $10,000, in recognition of their honorable service both in the military and Over The Road.

“It was an honor to present Jimmy Reddell with the keys to the Kenworth T680 on behalf of Kenworth and our employees. We thank him for his long military service to our country, and wish him all the best in his trucking career,” said Genevieve Bekkerus, Kenworth director of marketing.

While you’re out on the road, be on the lookout for one of our nation’s heroes: Jimmy Reddell, and if you see him please thank him for his service. He certainly thanks America’s drivers and military personnel for theirs.