The Truckload Carriers Association announced that Rodney L. Smith of Plant City, Fla., has been named its latest Highway Angel. Smith, who drives for FFE Transportation Services Inc., of Lancaster, Texas, is being recognized for helping a toddler in trouble.
Rodney L. Smith of Plant City, Fla., has been named TCA's latest Highway Angel.
Rodney L. Smith of Plant City, Fla., has been named TCA's latest Highway Angel.


On Sept. 6, at about 4 a.m., Smith was on Dundee Road in Winter Haven, Fla., on his way to work, when he saw a small figure in the middle of the road. As he got closer, he realized it was a little boy wearing nothing but a loose-fitting diaper.

Although it was not very cold, the boy was shivering, covered in mosquito bites and seemed scared. Smith brought the child into his vehicle, covered him with a jacket, and called the authorities. He then stayed with the child until police arrived and took over.

"I'm just glad it turned out well," said Smith, who pointed out that he found the child not far from an intersection that would get very busy once rush hour began. "There's a lot of woodland there. There's no telling what kinds of animals, snakes and such might be out there."

For his efforts to help the boy, Smith has received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate, and patch. FFE Transportation Services Inc. also received a certificate acknowledging that one of its drivers is a Highway Angel.

The Highway Angel program is sponsored for TCA by Internet Truckstop. Since the program's inception in August 1997, hundreds of drivers have been recognized as Highway Angels for the unusual kindness, courtesy, and courage they have shown others while on the job. TCA has received letters and e-mails from people across North America nominating truck drivers for the program.
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