Cross-Country Truckers Bringing Holiday Spirit
Two American truck drivers will embark on a cross-country journey in honor of a special Yuletide delivery.
Alaska natives John Schank and Fred Austin will bring holiday cheer to Washington, D.C., by transporting the annual Christmas Tree to the U.S. Capitol.
A 4,000-Mile Journey of Joy
This year, an extraordinary 74-foot tree was chosen from the Tongass National Forest, making its way across the nation to deliver a message of joy. This remarkable journey spans 4,000 miles with a series of 11 picturesque stops, allowing communities along the route to witness the People’s Tree firsthand.
A Unique Transport Experience
Lynden Transport, an Alaska-based trucking company, will cradle this magnificent tree in an 80-foot flatbed truck surrounded by protective covering and a plexiglass window, providing a glimpse of what’s to come. The truck, a sight in itself, represents not just a mode of transport, but a rolling celebration, destined for the heart of the nation.
The anticipated journey could take about three weeks, a time filled with anticipation and goodwill.
Veterans on the Road
Austin, who resides in North Pole, Alaska, brings a lifetime of experience with 50 years at Lynden Transport. He reflects on the honor it is to drive the Capitol Christmas Tree. “It’s pretty cool,” he shares. Schank recounts with pride that this will be his second time taking the tree on this special trip.
Together, these two seasoned truckers boast a collective driving experience of around 100 years. Their miles, a staggering estimate of 10 million, speak to their dedication and expertise. Schank knows every twist and turn of their mapped-out route, ensuring the tree will arrive safely.
“The trailer is 80 feet long and the tree just barely fits inside of it,” Schank explained. Aware of the precious cargo they carry, he vowed, “We will take care of it, and we will drive accordingly.”
Connecting with Communities
As the tree travels, banners invite onlookers to leave their names and messages at various stops, fostering a sense of connection. “You can actually look in and see the tree… and when we’re stopped, they turn the Christmas tree lights on,” Austin proudly remarks, showcasing the beauty of this shared experience.
Paul Grimaldi, president of Lynden Transport, expressed enthusiasm, stating, “John and Fred are a dynamic duo of driving experience, leadership, and positive energy.” Their camaraderie and joy will surely make this cross-country trek memorable.
The Tradition Behind the Tree
The Capitol Christmas Tree tradition spans over 54 years, originating when Speaker of the House John McCormack, D-Mass., placed a live tree on the Capitol lawn. Interestingly, that first tree only lasted three years due to wind and root damage. In 1970, a partnership with the U.S. Forest Service began, finding a new national forest each year to provide “the People’s Tree,” celebrating the spirit of America’s forests.
Where the Tree Will Roam
As the journey unfolds, the tree will make stops in Idaho, Utah, Colorado, Nebraska, Indiana, Ohio, and Maryland before illuminating the Capitol’s West Lawn. Each community it visits will have a chance to share in the spirit of Christmas.
For those eager to follow this festive trek, the journey can be tracked at kenworth.com/tree-tracker/. The anticipation builds as the People’s Tree makes its way toward its ultimate destination—a symbol of cheer and hope, uniting the country during this cherished time of year.
