Werner Enterprises added a fifth driver to its Operation Freedom fleet recently.
During a ceremony at its Fontana, Calif., terminal, Werner President and COO Derek Leathers welcomed professional driver J.W. Ray, a 6-year Army veteran, to the Freedom fleet.
“This is a great opportunity,” Ray said. “I will give my absolute best to live up to the expectations and honor all those who serve.”
A native of Heyburn, Idaho, Ray has worked for Werner since 1994. In 18 years as a professional driver, he has achieved more than 1 million safe driving miles, has served as a captain on the 2005-2006 Werner’s Road Team and was selected for the 2011-2012 American Trucking Associations America’s Road Team. In addition, Ray worked for Werner as a safety specialist and a field recruiter.
Werner’s Operation Freedom program debuted its first truck, Freedom 1, in February 2013. Freedom 2 was introduced the following May, Freedom 3 in August of 2014 and Freedom 4 in November.
The military-themed truck and trailer fleet travels on regular freight routes in addition to being showcased at truck shows, recruiting events and specific veteran ceremonies to bring awareness to Werner’s industry-leading military apprenticeship program.