Werner Enterprises to Haul 2023 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree
Werner Enterprises will deliver a 63’ tall gift to the nation this holiday as they transport the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree from the Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia to Washington, D.C.
Werner was selected as the hauler for this year’s tree at the recommendation of Kenworth Truck Company and based on industry reputation, according to Bruce Ward, president of Choose Outdoors, the non-profit partner assisting the USDA Forest Service in coordinating the annual initiative. The tree will be harvested from the Monongahela National Forest in early November, followed by a journey with special events in communities throughout the state before being delivered to Washington, D.C. Werner Enterprises also will deliver thousands of handmade ornaments made by West Virginians along with smaller trees for military families stationed at Joint Base Andrews donated by presenting sponsor, 84 Lumber.
Werner is an asset-based logistics provider and the sixth-largest truckload carrier in the United States. Beginning with a single truck purchased by founder Clarence L. (CL) Werner in 1956, the company today delivers world-class supply chain solutions to the global marketplace responsibly and safely – operating nearly 8,300 tractors and 30,000 trailers, with the help of more than 14,000 associates across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Approximately 20 percent of Werner’s workforce are military veterans. Werner has offices and terminal locations throughout North America, with headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska. Since 2022, the company received more than 30 awards recognizing its efforts in making a difference through sustainability, safety, and serving local communities.
“Werner’s selection as the 2023 Capitol Christmas Tree project carrier is truly an honor and testament to our hard work in keeping America moving, no matter the task,” said Werner’s Chairman, President and CEO, Derek Leathers. “The professional drivers entrusted with this prestigious project are highly skilled and embody our core values of safety, service and leadership. They will do an exceptional job carrying out this unique project and tribute to our country.”
Professional drivers Jesus Davila and Tim Dean will do the honors of safely delivering the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree to Washington, D.C., on behalf of Werner, while husband and wife team Steve and Gina Jones will transport the handmade ornaments and 84 companion trees. Between them, the drivers bring impeccable safety records and extensive community service and have received recognition through various prestigious driver awards. Learn more about these incredible drivers here.
Kenworth Truck Company returns for the tenth year as a major sponsor of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree program. A specially decaled Kenworth 100th anniversary T680 Signature Edition will deliver the 2023 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree. The T680 is equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine rated at 455 horsepower, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles.
In addition to presenting sponsor 84 Lumber and Kenworth Truck Company, partners supporting the 2023 journey include Hale Truck and Trailer, Spireon, WCHS ABC 8/FOX 11, Verizon Frontline, Society of American Foresters, Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, Truckload Carriers Association, AHF Products, Bruce, Hartco and Robbins, Great West Casualty Company, Warwood Tool, LexisNexis VitalChek Network, Inc. and more.
For more information on the initiative, how to get involved, and to follow the tree’s journey, visit www.uscapitolchristmastree.com.
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