American Trucking Associations' Supply Chain Security & Loss Prevention Council presented its annual awards recently
during its 2009 Supply Chain Security & Law Enforcement Conference & Exhibition in Forsyth, Ga.

The council's 2009 Excellence in Security Award went to ABF Freight System, its Leadership Award to Director of Security Geoff Stephany of Old Dominion Freight, and its Cargo Theft Prevention Distinguished Service Award to Detective Keith Lewis, task force agent for the Major Theft Unit of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

The Excellence in Security Award goes to the motor carrier that demonstrates the ability to evaluate the risk, implement the plans, apply the tools, train the personnel and manage the systems and processes to minimize theft and secure its supply chain.

"ABF Freight System is being recognized for the breadth and effectiveness of its security plans that cover both traditional asset protection and innovative homeland security programs," said Wally White, chairman of the Council's Homeland Security Committee. "It is a carrier dedicated to constantly evaluating and improving its security measures and experience record to ensure future prevention and recovery."

Stephany, who was recognized with the Leadership Award, was chosen for his common sense, wisdom, leadership and tenacity in moving the Council and industry forward.

"As Chairman of the Council, Geoff was proactive in identifying the concerns of the industry, voicing the Council's stance of those issues, and building the alliances to help resolve them," said Susan Chandler, executive director of the Council. "His credibility as a successful security professional and his belief that the Council and its members can make a difference in national supply chain security, allowed him to move others to action."

Lewis won the Cargo Theft Prevention Distinguished Service Award for his efforts to bring awareness to the issue of cargo theft locally and nationally. He was also recognized for his career-long dedication to serving and protecting.

"Agent Lewis has long understood the value of a national infrastructure against cargo theft and the power of collaboration," said Eric Mauro, chairman of the Council's Cargo Theft Committee. "With the support of his department, he has been able to provide the forums and communication avenues to further educate law enforcement and carriers on how best to prevent and recover from cargo theft."