Old Dominion honors driver for service to community, hard work

From left: Dave Bates, senior VP of Operations; Bill Kling; his wife Melina Kling; David Congdon, executive chairman of the board

Old Dominion Freight Line, Inc. recently honored one of its drivers for his work and service to his community.

During ceremonies at the company’s corporate office in Thomasville, North Carolina, Bill Kling was given the 2019 John Yowell OD Family Spirit Award.

Kling, who joined the company in 2004 and serves as a pickup and delivery driver for the Harrisburg, Pennsylvania service center, received the award in recognition of his hard work and selfless attitude. The award reflects the spirit modeled by the late John Yowell, former executive vice president and chief operating officer of Old Dominion.

“It’s an honor to be recognized with the John Yowell award,” said Kling. “The winners before me are great examples of Old Dominion employees with character and drive, and I am thrilled to be one of them. I hope I can inspire my fellow employees to work hard and get more involved in their communities.”

A retired U.S. Army sergeant, Kling is an active member in the local Veterans of Foreign Wars chapter, Ickesburg Lions Club and is an active member of Bethany Evangelical Church. In addition to his volunteer work, Kling is involved in his children’s school board and shares his industry experience with other Old Dominion drivers as a driver trainer. Kling lives in Carlisle with his wife of 19 years and five children.

David Congdon, executive chairman of the board (left) presents Bill Kling with the John Yowell Award.

“Bill’s friendly demeanor and approachable attitude, on top of his accident-free record make him the true picture of a John Yowell OD Family Spirit Award winner” said Greg Gantt, president and CEO of Old Dominion Freight Line. “His service to the community and dedication to work is an inspiration to what we hope all OD employees strive to be.”

Employees who receive the “OD Family Spirit” award are nominated by colleagues because of their selfless dedication to helping others. Kling was nominated by his peers and selected as the recipient amongst the company’s 22,000 employees nationwide.

Old Dominion awarded Kling $1,000 to give to his charity of choice. He donated the prize to the Lions Club International Foundation.