Considering a Fleet Management Software?
Stop losing money, optimize your operations, reduce downtime, and enhance your fleet efficiency with EMDECS.
Posted by
on
This year’s U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree—a majestic 80-foot Sitka spruce harvested from Alaska’s Tongass National Forest—made its way to Washington, D.C., thanks to the expertise of two of Alaska’s most seasoned truck drivers.
John Schank and Fred Austin, with nearly 100 years of combined driving experience and over 10 million safe miles between them, undertook the 4,000-mile journey across the country.
The delivery was made possible by Lynden Inc., a leader in logistics and freight solutions, and Kenworth, a long-time sponsor of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree program. The tree traveled in a state-of-the-art Kenworth T680 equipped with advanced safety and performance features, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to the West Lawn of the U.S. Capitol Building.
John Schank, with nearly 50 years at Lynden, is no stranger to this historic holiday mission. Having transported the Capitol Christmas Tree in 2015, Schank embraced the challenge again.
Known for navigating Alaska’s treacherous Dalton Highway, Schank has twice been named Driver of the Year by the Alaska Trucking Association.
Fred Austin, now approaching 90 years old, brought his decades of experience to the journey. Starting his career in 1975, Austin has logged over 4 million miles and currently serves as a driver trainer, passing on his knowledge to the next generation of operators.
Both drivers emphasized the importance of safety, especially when operating in Alaska’s harsh conditions. “Safety always comes first,” said Austin. “It’s hard work, but knowing we’re making a difference—even delivering Christmas trees—makes it worthwhile.”
The Kenworth T680, used to haul the oversized Hale Trailer carrying the tree, is an example of modern trucking technology. With a PACCAR Powertrain, adaptive cruise control, and advanced lane-keeping assist, the T680 provides drivers comfort and safety, even over long hauls.
Austin, who started driving with a 1944 Kenworth, marveled at the evolution of truck technology. “The advancements are incredible,” he said. “From driver assistance systems to digital mirrors, today’s trucks make our job much easier.”
Schank echoed this sentiment, praising the T680 for its performance on the journey. “Kenworth builds trucks that handle tough conditions,” he said. “Driving this T680 across the country was a real honor.”
Stop losing money, optimize your operations, reduce downtime, and enhance your fleet efficiency with EMDECS.
The tree’s journey included stops in several communities for celebratory events, with appearances in Seattle, Renton, Washington, and Chillicothe, Ohio. At every stop, the drivers shared stories of Alaska’s beauty and the significance of the People’s Tree.
“It’s been a privilege to bring the spirit of Alaska to communities nationwide,” said Austin. “Everywhere we went, people came out to see the tree and celebrate together.”
For Schank and Austin, delivering the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree was a heartfelt opportunity to bring the nation together for the holidays, symbolizing hope, joy, and unity as it lights up Washington, D.C.
“It’s not just freight; it’s something special for the entire country,” said Austin. “Being part of this tradition has been a highlight of my career.”
The journey of the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is a powerful reminder of the dedication and expertise that drives the trucking and fleet industries. It’s more than moving freight; it’s connecting communities, spreading joy, and delivering something extraordinary. At BrightOrder, we honor the innovation, teamwork, and professionalism that make stories like this possible.
