Penske Logistics truck driver John Merritts has been named the Truck Renting and Leasing Association 2007 Driver of the Year. The Columbus, Ohio resident, was presented with this national honor
at the TRALA Annual Meeting in Palm Springs, Calif. last weekend.
"This is a distinct honor that our industry bestows upon only one driver each year possessing the highest excellence in driving and safety standards, as demonstrated throughout their careers," said Peter J. Vroom, TRALA president and CEO.
Merritts, 57, joined Penske in 1993, and has been a truck driver for 29 years. A U.S. Air Force Vietnam War veteran, Merritts learned to drive a tractor while serving four tours of duty in Asia.
Merritts is a Smith System trainer, and firmly believes in the system's fundamentals of observing space, visibility and time. He conducts orientations for new drivers, and chairs the facility's safety committee.
"I would like to congratulate John Merritts for this monumental achievement," said Vince Hartnett, president of Penske Logistics. "He has logged over two million accident-free miles through nearly 30 years of skilled and safe driving. John Merritts represents Penske Logistics, and himself, in the most dignified and professional manner at all times."
For more information, visit www.penskelogistics.com.