Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/671344
Recognition Road W illie Cooley, a driver for Boyd Brothers Transporta- on since 2010, was hon- ored for achieving one million safe driving miles with the company at a ceremony on March 19, at the fleet's Birmingham, AL terminal. "This is like the Heisman trophy presentation," said VP of Safety Frank Stokes, "where past awardees are recog- nized, and then you have a new person coming into the fold as a winner." Indeed this presentation closely mir- rored a Heisman ceremony, because behind Cooley stood several of Boyd Brothers' million mile drivers, some of whom had even driven two or three mil- lion miles for the company. "Having these guys stand behind you, you know you're in the million-mile club now. What an honor it must be to be in that club. These are your brethren" said Boyd Brothers president Chris Cooper, re- ferring to the million mile drivers whose ranks Cooley is now a part of. "Getting to this point is no accident," added Stokes, "It took a lot of intentional work on Willie's part, and a commitment each and every day to remain safe. We're proud of Willie for his accomplishment, and are looking forward to his second million. This is an outstanding accom- plishment and one we hope all Boyd Brothers drivers will achieve." In addition to a gift of $1,500, Cooley received a trophy, jacket, ring, and other gifts that recognized his million-mile achievement. Proudly holding his million-mile trophy, Cooley took a moment to reflect on his accomplishment and offer some advice for the young drivers present oat the ceremony. "Well, it took a long time to get here, and it took a lot of dedication. It took a lot of commitment and a lot of getting used to stuff. But I got here, I got it done, and I'm ready for my second million!" said Cooley, "And for the new guys, I know it might start out as a goal for you to reach a million miles. But if you find yourself at 750,000 safe miles, then it just jumps out at you, and from then on its on you, one mile at a time. Make sure you do it safe, and make sure you do it right the first time. Be safe, and be professional. That's what gets you there." bdj 42 May 2016 BestDriverJOBS www.bestdriverjobs.com By Ian Palmer Boyd Brothers driver joins the Million Mile Club