ABF Freight System Inc. has been awarded the 2009 Excellence in Security Award from the American Trucking Assns.’ Supply Chain Security & Loss Prevention Council. Geoff Stephany, of Old Dominion Freight Line Inc., and Det. Keith Lewis of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation were also honored for their efforts in fighting cargo theft at the group’s Supply Chain Security & Law Enforcement Conference & Exhibition in Forsyth, GA.
ABF director of safety & security James W. Mcarlin, CDS, and manager of security Brian Shutt, CCSP, accepted the award. The Excellence in Security Award is given to a carrier that best demonstrates the ability to evaluate risk, implement prevention plans, apply the tools, train personnel and manage the systems necessary to minimize theft, the committee said.
“ABF Freight System is being recognized for the breadth and effectiveness of its security plans that cover both traditional asset protection and innovative homeland security programs. It is a carrier dedicated to constantly evaluating and improving its security measures and experience record to ensure future prevention and recovery,”said Wally White, chairman of the council’s Homeland Security Committee and director of safety and regulatory compliance for U.S. Xpress Enterprises Inc.
Stephany, the director of security, was award the Leadership Award, given for providing common sense wisdom, leadership and tenacity in moving the Council and industry forward in a positive and meaningful way, the committee said.
Lewis is the task force agent for the Major Theft Unit, formed at the urging of Georgia Gov. Sonny Perdue. He was presented with the Cargo Theft Prevention Distinguished Service Award for his efforts in attention to the issue of cargo theft in his state and nationwide, the organization said.
“Agent Lewis has long understood the value of a national infrastructure against cargo theft and the power of collaboration,” said Eric Mauro, the Council’s cargo theft committee chairman and vp of security & claims for UPS Freight. “With the support of his department, he has been able to provide the forums and communication avenues to further educate law enforcement and carriers on how best to prevent and recover from cargo theft. For this the Council and industry are forever grateful.”
