Spring 2021 Hardlines

COMPANY NEWS

Safety First Blish-Mize Driver Celebrates 20+ Years of Safe Driving

For his record of safe driving, JB Hunt driver Neil Shalz received a fresh coat of paint on his truck cab. The cab was part of the fleet that delivered wreaths to cemeteries across the country in recognition of National Wreaths Across America Day, which honors fallen service members.

C ommitting to a safe workplace is a core component for many employers, but it’s a necessary component for people who spend their careers on the road. Neil Shalz has been behind the wheel for JB Hunt trucking company for more than 20 years.

in the U.S. armed forces. JB Hunt drivers and personnel are part of the organization’s “Honor Fleet” that delivers more than 145,000 wreaths in time for National Wreaths Across America Day. Every year, JB Hunt leadership chooses the murals for the trucks, and after the event, they are given to specific drivers, usually those with a military background and those with a long tenure with the company. Due to Shalz’s longtime service with JB Hunt, he was recognized with a truck late last year. After a long career and commitment to safety, Shalz will retire at the end of February.

He joined the crew in 1999, and he has been delivering to Blish-Mize customers since 2017. Shalz accomplished a remarkable achievement at the end of 2020: no accidents in 15 years. In recognition of his commitment to safety, Shalz’s truck was painted with a mural. His truck represents more than safety; it is part of a fleet used for the Wreaths Across America campaign. On Dec. 18 every year, volunteers and service members lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery and at more than 2,100 other sites across the country, at sea and abroad to honor those who served

50 Spring 2021 • Hardlines Strategies