Don Turkelson in his "Back on the Road 2008" Truck

Congratulations Don Turkelson
Arrow's Back On The Road 2008 Contest Winner!

As the crowd assembled in front of the main stage just outside the Kentucky Exposition Center at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), an unseasonably cool breeze whistled through the presentation tent. Curiosity seekers streaming in from the truck show parking lot also paused to witness this very special event.

Then, with country music blaring and hints of sunlight peeking through the gray afternoon sky, Bill Mack, the legendary XM Radio personality and "Satellite Radio Cowboy," took the stage to thunderous applause.

Mack thanked the crowd for "braving the elements" and coming out to witness the awarding of the colorful "Back On The Road 2008" truck positioned immediately next to the stage. Mack also expressed his sincere honor and privilege to be part of such a wonderful endeavor while thanking truckers across America for their hard work under tough economic conditions, for supporting the "Back On The Road 2008" campaign and their tireless efforts to help others less fortunate.

Prior to awarding the grand prize package, Bill Mack introduced Carl Heikel, President and CEO of Arrow Truck Sales, who issued a few opening remarks and expressed his excitement and support for "Back On The Road 2008," as did Matt Kelly, Executive Director of Marketing for Volvo Trucks North America. Steve Feldmann, Marketing Manager for Heartland Express, also provided words of encouragement for the trucking industry.

When the moment of truth finally arrived, Bill Mack turned away from the podium and said, tongue in cheek, "May I have the envelope please!" As he slowly opened the over-sized envelope he paused briefly, then announced, "The winner of the Back On The Road 2008 Contest is... Mr. Donald Turkelson!" As the crowd cheered, a stunned Turkelson took the stage and, ceremoniously, accepted the keys to the specially-equipped 2005 Volvo VNL 670 truck. Turkelson also received a new lap-top computer and gift basket from Volvo's Matt Kelly. Turkelson was also given a Heartland Express baseball cap and a colorful "Back On The Road" jacket as he thanked Arrow Truck Sales, Volvo Trucks and the other Back On The Road 2008 sponsors for their generosity.

Turkelson, who resides in Battle Creek, Michigan, was a victim of an attempted truck high-jacking during the early morning hours of March 19, 2002 at a company drop lot. During the incident, Turkelson was shot and wounded in his left leg as he tried to escape his assailant.

After nearly two years of extensive physical and mental therapy, Turkelson, a former Army chaplain, returned to part time work as a truck driving instructor at Lansing Community College in his hometown of Battle Creek and also worked, part time, as a pastor for a Methodist church. However, his dream was to, someday, return to the road as a full time owner-operator.

Immediately following the Back On The Road 2008 award presentation, Bill Mack interviewed Turkelson live, on stage, for an upcoming segment on Mack's radio show. Turkelson also granted numerous interviews about his story following the event with leading industry trade publications and radio networks.

Be sure to check out our photo page for "Back on the Road 2008" event highlights.

Upon completion of a brief orientation period, Turkelson expects to begin his journey - and new career - with Heartland Express in April and highlights of his travels will be posted on the Back On The Road 2008 web site throughout the year. Truckers and other well-wishers from across the country will also have an opportunity to communicate, one-on-one, with our winner via a special blog on the Back On The Road 2008 web site.

Congratulations again to Don Turkelson of Battle Creek, Michigan - Arrow's "Back On The Road 2008" grand prize winner!