When Edward R. Carley III found out his foreman had nominated him for the 2019 National Private Truck Council’s (NPTC) National Driver All-Stars award, he didn’t realize it was a national award.
“It’s slowly sinking in,” Carley said. “This is a blessing and honor that shows all the sweat and tears and long hours pay off.”
The annual driving award recognizes those who exhibit an exceptional commitment to safety, compliance and customer service. The nomination process allows each organization to nominate only one driver per year.
Carley, a Veteran driver with nearly 40 years behind the wheel, was recognized in a ceremony at the NPTC National Safety Conference Sept. 12 at the Omni Orlando Hotel in Championsgate, FL.
“All-Star drivers like Edward Carley bring experience and prestige to the Exchange’s fleet,” said Col. Douglas Vallejo, deputy director, Logistics. “In the last ten years, the Exchange has had five All-Star drivers—all of whom honor the Warfighters we serve with their hard work.”
Carley, who began his Exchange career in 1996, says it was his childhood dream to become a truck driver. The son of a 20-year Air Force Veteran, Carley joined the Army at 18 to learn how to drive trucks, and served more than 11 years in active duty, reserves and National Guard.
Now a local driver for the Exchange’s West Coast Distribution Center, the Sacramento native says his lifelong connection to the armed forces helps him be a better driver.
“Because I grew up in the military and served myself, I think I have more insight on what to expect on military installations,” Carley said. “I have a mission to take care of the troops, and this job helps me continue to do that.”
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