Jannie Reece of Waynesboro, Tenn., a professional truck driver for Transco Lines, Inc., of Russellville, Ark., has been named a Highway Angel by the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA). She is being recognized for helping put out the flames on a fellow motorist’s car.
A small car beside Reece caught fire on I-20 in Leeds, Ala. Reece saw flames from sides and front of the vehicle. Reece stopped and grabbed her fire extinguisher when the driver of the fiery car pulled to the side of the road.
Reece made sure the driver and passenger were okay and asked if anyone else was inside. Reece extinguished flames from under the car and hood, burning her hand in the process.
After the fire was out, Reece called 911 to report the situation. When the first responders arrived, they thanked Reece for her actions and said the situation would have been much worse if she had not been willing to get involved. No other drivers stopped to assist in the highway event.
When asked why she chose to stop and help, the 21-year professional truck driver responded: “Over the years, I have kept my philosophy that you have to pay it forward if you want good things to come to you. I don’t want anyone to be hurt if I can help it.”
Since the Highway Angel program began in August 1997, hundreds of drivers have been recognized as Highway Angels for the unusual kindness, courtesy, and courage they have shown others while on the job.
