WASHINGTON D.C., DC — An Iowan is part of team decking the halls and making spirits bright at the United States Capitol.
Griswold resident and longtime truck driver Tim Dean is one of four people trusted with the transportation of America's tree. This year, the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree came from Monongahela National Forest in West Virginia.
"Every town we go to, we're delivering smiles," Dean told Local 5. "Delivering the Capitol Christmas tree, everyone seems pretty excited and supportive of the venture."
Dean is the second driver in Werner's history to accomplish five million accident-free miles on the road, and his years of leadership helped land his spot on this coveted Christmas squad.
"During my 35-year career with Werner as a professional driver, the selection for this project is at the top of the list among the incredible opportunities I’ve experienced," Dean said in the release. "With approximately 20 percent of our workforce at Werner being military veterans, I’m also proud to support those who served our country during this special opportunity.”
According to a press release from the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree Project's website, Dean served as an ATA America’s Road Team Captain from 2009 to 2010, and has been a mentor since 2005.
He also competed in the Nebraska Truck Driving Championships for more than 20 years — Dean placed first in his class nine times throughout the years, even earning the Grand Champion title in 2012 and 2018.
Dean will deliver the festive cargo alongside fellow Werner drivers Jesus Davila, Gina Jones and Steve Jones.