Southeastern Freight Lines recognized truck driver Malcom Bryant for 50 years of accident-free driving during the company’s annual Safety and Service Awards.

Bryant started trucking when he was 17 years old, following in his father’s footsteps. He drove a 1965 B-Model with no power steering or air conditioning, and twin stick shifters.

“We’re so proud to recognize Malcom for his many years of loyal and faithful service,” said W.T. “Tobin” Cassels, Southeastern president. “He’s created a safety record that speaks to Southeastern’s safety culture, setting the bar high for others by letting them know it can be done.”

He is the first Southeastern driver to reach this threshold of safety. For his long and safe career, Southeastern surprised Bryant with a customized and refurbished 2012 Volvo. He was also honored with a shadow box of safety pins from commemorating each year of his career, a custom-made miniature replica of the 1965 B-Model Mack, and a $5,000 check.

“Because Malcom is the first within our company to accomplish 50 years of safe driving, we as a company were tasked with thinking through how we could best honor this highly regarded professional milestone,” said Cassels. “Through conversations, Malcom mentioned he’d like to have a truck. While we thought he was referring to a crystal model truck for display in his home, that was far from his mind.”

Bryant is a long-time resident of Newberry, South Carolina, and the presdident of the South Carolina Trucking Association commended his career achievement. “By all accounts, Mr. Bryant has likely exceeded all expectations and really set the bar high for others," said Rick Todd, SCTA president and CEO. "The recognition and gifts he’s received are certainly generous and wonderful, but they can’t be as rewarding as the satisfaction and pride of owning a truly remarkable career and track record like his.

"Bryant is a genuine ‘Knight of the Road,’ and for aspiring young professional drivers, what a great role model to look to," Todd continued. "All drivers should marvel at the thought of what he’s accomplished and how much discipline he’s developed.”