A NatRoad member from Shoobridge Transport has saved the life of a fellow truckie, resulting in being honoured as a Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian, after being tracked down on Facebook.
Shoobridge Transport’s John Lee assisted at a major crash site in January 2018, coming to the aid of the trapped driver of an overturned truck that was leaking fuel and engulfed in flames.
After being rescued through the windscreen of the truck by Mr Lee, the driver made a full recovery from minor injuries.
Following the incident, the driver’s wife set out on a quest to locate her husband’s hero and turned to social media to ensure he received the deserved recognition.
According to Bridgestone Australia & New Zealand Managing Director, Stephen Roche, John Lee is a standout member of the Australian trucking community who represents the values of the accolade.
“The Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian accolade recognises truck drivers who have done incredible, selfless things, and we’re delighted to recognise John Lee with this award,” Mr Roche said.
“Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardians tend to be humble, but we believe they deserve recognition. The lengths that went into locating John Lee highlights the impact his actions made and showcases the need to distinguish him properly. Congratulations John.”
Shoobridge Transport’s CFO, Mr Peter Shoobridge was excited to hear the news that John has received the award, as it took some time to track John down and convince him to be nominated for the award.
“We are incredibly proud of John and his courageous actions. John is the type of person to play a situation down as he is incredibly humble, but it’s such a great honour to have him recognised.”
Talking with John Lee, it was evident that he is a humble man.
“I was just at the right place at the right time and essentially acted on instinct and helped pull him out. I didn’t expect to receive the award, I would just hope that someone would do the same for me,’ said John.
NatRoad would like to congratulate John Lee on being named the latest Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian. We thank you for your quick decision that resulted in saving a fellow industry member.
The Bridgestone Bandag Highway Guardian award honours the great community service performed by professional truck drivers who go above and beyond the call of duty to assist those around them during the course of their normal work.
Together with the Australian Trucking Association, Bridgestone and Bandag aim to bring unsung heroes like John Lee to the fore.
If you know a Highway Guardian, head here to nominate.