Leonard’s Express recently claimed two awards at the 12th annual Big Rig Truck Show in Eau Claire, Wisconsin.
The New York-based refrigerated and dry van carrier garnered first place in the People’s Choice category and second in the Drivers’ Choice category for its U.S. Marine Corps-designed Kenworth truck unveiled earlier this year as part of the company’s patriotic “wrapped truck” program. Leonard’s is vinyl-wrapping new trucks in military-themed designs at each of its terminals in Eau Claire; Caldwell, Idaho; Farmington, New York; New Castle, Delaware; and Taylorsville, North Carolina. The trucks are assigned to drivers who served in the U.S. military.
See also: Military veteran rookie drivers compete for Kenworth T680 Next Gen
Mike Holder, who drives the award-winning truck for Leonard’s Express, was on hand to receive the award.
“We are always excited to showcase our fleet and the world-class technology we deploy to serve our customers,” said Ken Johnson, Leonard’s Express CEO. “When we can also demonstrate our values, including our commitment to veterans, drivers, and the communities where we live and work, it becomes a win-win-win scenario.
“We look forward to participating in this and other premier events in the future.”
At this year’s Big Rig Truck Show, 72 trucks were eligible to win awards across three categories: Drivers’ Choice, People’s Choice, and Kids’ Choice. About 1,200 attendees voted.
The show features semi drag racing, a parade, food vendors, and the Aftershock Jet Fire Truck, which reaches speeds greater than 400 mph (a world record for fire trucks) and shoots huge flames out of three after-burning jet engines. “When I first went to this event, I was just enamored by the cool trucks,” said Ed Fosdick, Leonard’s Express director of recruiting. “I’m talking from the 50s, 60s, and 70s … the plethora of time these drivers put into detailing these trucks and bringing them back to life is something you’ve got to see.”
