Farmington-based company Leonard’s Express showed support for veterans by equipping several long-haul trucks with a military-themed design.
As part of its patriotic ‘wrapped truck’ program, the company vinyl wrapped new trucks at each of its five terminals. The first revamped truck was unveiled on Wednesday, May 18 at the company’s corporate headquarters in Farmington.
Veteran Keith Buchanan will drive the Air Force-themed wrapped truck for the next four to five years, according to a press release. Buchanan hauls freight out of the North Carolina terminal but traveled to Farmington for a special ceremony to celebrate the unveiling of the new trucks. The other trucks are in the process of being assigned to drivers who have served in the U.S. military.
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Truck company honors U.S. military veterans
Leonard’s Express Chief Operating Officer Kevin Johnson commemorated the official launch of the program by presenting the keys to Buchanan, followed by remarks from Director of Maintenance Kevin Adriaansen and Buchanan.
“We admire the nearly 100 veteran drivers who work for Leonard’s Express,” said the company’s Director of Organization Development Tim Owens. “They are our ‘boots on the ground.’ Their skill, maturity and character are truly remarkable. This program is one of the many ways we honor our veteran employees.”
“Being selected to drive this truck honoring my branch of service and driving for Leonard’s Express – which I’m super proud of – is the most incredible honor,” said Buchanan, who has been a professional driver for 26 years. “Anyone who knows me will tell you that I ride for the brand, and I love my country. I still display my Air Force pride and combining this with my passion for driving is a dream come true.”
When Buchanan returns to North Carolina, he plans to showcase the truck for Memorial Day and other events around the Fourth of July and Veterans Day.
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