Back in 1976, food-grade, bulk liquid hauler Johnsrud Transport hand-painted the stars-and-stripes on one of its tractors to celebrate America's 200th birthday. Twenty-six years later, the country's renewed spirit of patriotism inspired the company to go with the patriotic theme once again, this time on five of the company's Kenworth T800s.
"I thought now was the perfect time to do a remake of the truck we painted in the '70s," said Leon Johnsrud, founder and chairman of the board of Johnsrud Transport. "Our five red-white-and blue trucks are symbols of patriotism that draw lots of positive attention toward our company and the trucking industry as a whole. Our drivers really take pride in driving these tractors, and customers love them."
The Kenworth dealer for Johnsrud Transport played an active role in getting the red-white-and-blue decals on company trucks. "Getting the decals on the tractors was an involved process," said Johnsrud. "Kenworth Mid-Iowa produced several options that allowed us to achieve just the right look for our tractors. They were with us every step of the way."
The patriotic T800s have made appearances at schools near the company headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa, at local Kenworth dealerships, and at the Iowa Truck Driving Championship. In addition, the whole nation and beyond has a chance to catch a glimpse of these trucks as the company hauls liquids -- such as vegetable oils, dairy products, juices and chocolate -- to and from 48 states, Canada and Mexico.
Johnsrud Transport runs more than 135 Walker, Polar, Brenner and STE tanker trailers that can handle up to 7,500 gallons or 50,000 pounds per haul. Pulling many of these tankers are Kenworth T800 and W900 tractors equipped with 500 horsepower, high-torque engines driven through 10-speed transmissions. The company operates an independent terminal in Lincoln, Neb. and has offices in Yakima, Wash. as well as Anaheim, Calif.
"We firmly believe in offering excellent, personalized service," said Johnsrud. "This credo has allowed us to build longstanding relationships with high-profile clients. Our best form of advertising is word of mouth from satisfied customers."
Keeping it all in the family has added to company loyalty and prosperity. Johnsrud's daughter, Jackie, serves as the firm's president, and his son, Stuart, as vice president. Jackie runs all company operations, while Stuart manages company information systems and strategies.
Johnsrud Transport's cornerstone is safety. "We're dedicated to safety, and it all begins with our drivers," said Johnsrud. "The people we hire must have at least five years of professional driving experience and impeccable records. Many have been with us for 16 to 18 years and are award-winning, million-mile drivers."
In addition to being dedicated to their country and customers, Johnsrud Transport regularly gives back to the community. During the devastating 1993 Iowa floods, the company teamed up with the U.S. Army and National Guard to deliver drinking water to needy families.
