Purple Heart recipient Cory Troxell wins Transition Trucking’s top honor

Cory Troxell was named the 2024 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence award winner on Dec. 13 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The award, which is given annually to veterans making the transition to a career in trucking, is a partnership between Fastport, Kenworth and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative.

“I honestly thought after coming out of the military that you fade away,” Troxell said. “No one thinks about you anymore; you’re done. But this is proof that’s not true. Thank you for giving me this opportunity and for actually doing something for veterans that I didn’t think was possible.”

Troxell, a U.S. Army veteran and driver for Dallas-based Stevens Transport, was handed the keys to a brand-new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the latest driver amenities – donated by Kenworth for the ninth consecutive year.

“It was a privilege to hand over the keys to the Kenworth T680 to a veteran who exemplifies commitment and courage,” said Cara Howes, Kenworth’s assistant director of marketing. “On behalf of Kenworth and our dedicated employees, we extend our gratitude for his service to our nation and our best wishes for a prosperous future in the trucking industry.”

Troxell’s family has strong military ties, with his grandfather, father and uncle serving with distinguished careers. He followed that lead, enlisting in the Army in 2004 and serving for 20 years. In 2009, Troxell was severely wounded and awarded a Purple Heart for his valor.

After retiring from the military, he followed the family lead again and began a career in trucking based on a strong family connection to the industry.

“Cory’s outstanding military career and continued excellence as a professional truck driver highlight the strength and determination veterans bring to the trucking industry,” said Brad Bentley, president of Fastport. “He represents the best of what this program aims to achieve, and we are confident he will inspire and pave the way for others in the military community to find success in this field.”

Transition Trucking also presented cash awards to the other three finalists this year. Douglas Couch, a driver for Roehl Transport Inc. and a Navy veteran, was named runner-up and received $10,000.

Earning $5,000 as finalists for this year’s Transition Trucking award were Shawn Haley (U.S. Marine Corps, Veriha Trucking LLC) and Billy Taylor (U.S. Coast Guard, Werner Enterprises).

“The dedication and resilience of our veteran finalists are nothing short of inspiring,” said Eric Eversole, president of Hiring Our Heroes. “They remind us of the enduring values that make America a leader in opportunity and innovation and the boundless potential that awaits those who transition from military service to meaningful careers.”

To be eligible for the annual Transition Trucking award, drivers must be a legal U.S. resident; a military veteran or member of the National Guard or Reserves; a graduate of a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS- or CVTA-member driver training school, with a valid CDL; have been employed by any for-hire carrier or private fleet that has pledged to hire veterans; and have been hired as a CDL driver after Jan. 1.

More information about the Transition Trucking award program is available at TransitionTrucking.org. LL