Delivering the Capitol Christmas Tree with Tim Dean, Jesus Davila, Steve and Gina Jones

Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast

In this special holiday episode of Freight Nation: A Trucking Podcast, host Brent Hutto brings together truck drivers from Werner Transportation, Tim Dean, Jesus Davila, Steve and Gina Jones, to discuss their unique journey delivering the 2023 Christmas tree from West Virginia to the nation's Capital.

Join them as they:

• Celebrate delivering the Capitol Christmas tree from its forest location to the Capitol lawn.
• Delve into insights and advice on safety, distractions, and patience from experienced truckers.
• Discuss Gina's role in encouraging female drivers
• And more!

Jesus Davila, a leader in Werner's Operation Freedom Fleet, holds over 550,000 accident-free miles. He's earned titles like ATA America’s Road Team Captain and Werner Road Team Captain. With 12 years in the U.S. Marine Corps and multiple prestigious awards, he values family time when not on the road with his wife, Michelle, and their children.

Tim Dean, a standout driver, achieved five million accident-free miles, a rare feat at Werner. His extensive career includes roles as ATA America’s Road Team Captain and mentor. He's a Nebraska Truck Driving Championships champion, earning accolades like the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance IDEA and Nebraska Trucking Association Driver of the Year.

Gina Jones, with over a million accident-free miles, is a distinguished figure in trucking. She serves as both ATA America’s Road Team Captain and Werner Road Team Captain, advocating for women in the industry. Gina, alongside her husband Steve, is a key part of Werner’s Operation Freedom Fleet.

Steve Jones, with over a million accident-free miles, is committed to safety and excellence. Alongside Gina, he supports students in truck driving schools and actively participates in committees at Werner. His prior service in the US Army for seven years reflects his dedication to service, which he carried into his trucking career.

Episode Highlights:

[22:20] Tim and Jesus had the unique responsibility of transporting a 63-foot Norway spruce Capitol Christmas Tree from the Monongahela National Forest to Washington, D.C. They described the stops, interaction with communities, and the warmth received. They shared experiences driving through small towns and engaging with people, including a visit to the West Virginia capital with thousands in attendance. They also encountered challenges, including navigating tight roads and receiving overwhelming community support at multiple stops. They both speak to embracing learning opportunities, reflecting on experiences, and valuing the relationships built along the journey.

[31:55] Steve and Gina managed the delivery of 10,000+ handmade ornaments from West Virginia, ensuring safe transportation to D.C. Additionally, they delivered companion trees to military bases and governmental buildings, culminating in a touching delivery to service members' families, reflecting on the emotional impact of their work as couples working together.

[35:15] The team encountered significant challenges navigating Washington, D.C.'s streets, especially during the last mile of the delivery process. Despite having law enforcement escorts, dealing with malfunctioning gates and traffic required careful maneuvering to ensure the safe arrival of the Capitol Christmas Tree.

[39:16] Tim, Jesus, Steve, and Gina shared valuable advice for new truckers, emphasizing safety, attention to detail, patience, humility, and gratitude for family support. The drivers stressed the significance of safe driving practices, including avoiding distractions like mobile phones, wearing seat belts, meticulous planning, remaining humble, and acknowledging the critical role of family in their journeys.

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