Interior Alaska News

U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan of Alaska recently acknowledged the efforts of two veteran truck drivers, Fred Austin and John Schank, on the Senate floor. The pair was recognized for transporting the U.S. Capitol Christmas tree from Wrangell, Alaska to Washington, D.C., a journey spanning over 4,000 miles in three weeks.

Fred Austin and John Schank, both seasoned Teamster truck drivers with more than 130 years of combined experience, successfully delivered the 80-foot Sitka Spruce to its destination. This marks only the second occasion since 1964 that an Alaskan tree has been chosen for this honor.

Senator Sullivan expressed his appreciation for their dedication during his "Alaskan of the Week" series. He stated, "The Alaskan of the Week is—for the reporters who are still around here on Thursday afternoon and the American people, they all view this as their favorite speech of the week."

Fred Austin began trucking at age 18 and now boasts a career spanning 71 years. A Navy veteran who served during the Cuban Missile Crisis, Fred settled in North Pole, Alaska in the mid-sixties. He remarked about his decision to move north: "It’s in our blood to go find the frontier."

John Schank has accumulated six million miles over nearly five decades of trucking. Originally from Michigan but having raised a family in Fairbanks, he noted that his journey across America provided an opportunity to reunite with family members along the way.

Both drivers have received widespread recognition for their contributions. Senator Sullivan concluded by thanking them and stating: "Thanks to all the Alaskans who helped make this happen. Thanks to the Teamsters who keep our State and country’s economy rolling strong."