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The Bennett family of Cos. was recognized by Wreaths Across America as the sixth recipient of its annual James Prout Spirit of Giving Award.

WAA presented the award earlier this summer at the eighth annual Stem to Stone event held near its headquarters in Downeast, Maine. The award is presented annually to a truck driver, business or organization that has supported charitable causes in a way that will affect generations to come. Bennett received the award for helping the charity fulfill its mission to honor deceased veterans.

“Wreaths Across America holds a special place in the hearts of truck drivers, agents and employees of the Bennett family of Cos. Said Executive Vice President Lee Gentry. “Many of our team have served our country, have family members currently serving, or have known someone who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. As part of our commitment to patriotism, we embraced the cause of Wreaths Across America – and the national cemetery closest to our business, Andersonville National Cemetery. “

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WAA is a charitable organization that honors fallen soldiers by coordinating wreath laying ceremonies at Arlington National Cemetery and other locations across the country each December. Bennett helped fulfill this mission by carrying wreaths.

“It is our great honor to be a part of the Wreaths Across America family, to continue to remember, honor and teach those around us the brave men and women we recognize during the holidays and at events. like this all year round. ”said Gentry. “On behalf of the entire team, we are touched and grateful for this special honor.”

Bennett was involved in other charitable and humanitarian efforts, including hurricane relief and transporting supplies in response to the September 11 attacks. In 2018, WAA was added to the list of charities the company helps. He has carried 20,000 crowns to support the group since then.

“Without the trucking community and their generous donations of time and service, our mission would simply not be possible,” said Don Queeney, Director of Trucking for WAA. “The work Bennett does throughout the year encourages new involvement and support for the mission, not only in Georgia, but in the industry. They are true friends of the organization, for which we are grateful.

The James Prout Spirit of Giving Award is named in memory of James Prout, owner of Blue Bird Ranch Trucking in Jonesboro, Maine. Prout was the first person to volunteer to transport wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery when the program was in its infancy.

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