INDIANAPOLIS, Indiana - November 13, 2003 - Don Payne, a long haul driver for Roadway Express Inc., a less-than-truckload transporter of industrial, commercial and retail goods, reached the milestone of 50 years driving for the freight carrier.
"It feels like I have been working for Roadway my entire life. The time has passed very quickly," said Payne.
The most senior employee of Roadway's professional drivers, Payne joined the company in 1953 and drives out of the Indianapolis facility. He is a member of Local 135 of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. He has received 41 years of various safety awards and is currently on a streak of driving over 2,472,630 miles without a preventable accident. During his career he has reached the two million-mile goal three times.
"All of the Roadway employees are proud to have Don as a member of our professional and dedicated workforce. His 50 years of exemplary performance helps lead the way to our goal of a fully engaged team that takes responsibility and initiative to positively impact business for our company and our customers," said Bob Stull, President of Roadway Express.
"Words cannot adequately describe the value of our team member, Don. The example he has been to all those who know him is invaluable," said Ron Baysinger, Indianapolis Relay Manager. "He continues to drive nearly 3300 miles each week exhibiting unequaled dedication to Roadway."
Payne and his wife of 38 years, Helen, reside in Greenwood, Indiana and have nine children, sixteen grandchildren and seven great grandchildren. In a proclamation issued by the city of Greenwood, November 14th has been declared "Don Payne Day."
The Indianapolis facility employs 249 over-the-road drivers. Of those drivers, 1 has achieved 3 million safes miles, 12 have achieved 2 million safe miles and 44 have achieved 1 million accident-free miles.
