Independently owned since 1905
Independently owned since 1905
When nationally precious cargo needs to be moved, a worthy driver is sought and found with "Sneaky"
Sometimes big responsibilities come with a few perks.
Since the announcement earlier this year that Kootenai National Forest would provide the yuletide trees that would decorate the Capitol in Washington D.C., stirrings locally have prompted workshops and activities to quilt tree skirts, construct homemade ornaments and write Christmas cards to accompany the tree on its 2,000-mile journey.
With all the homespun, heartfelt contributions, it will be up to one man to make sure the tree reaches its destination safely. “The tree will be in very good hands,” said Mike Wilson, owner of Whitewood Transport. Wilson was pleased to announce that Plains resident and decorated trucker Larry “Sneaky” Spiekermeier has been tapped to handle the festive delivery for the government.
Spiekermeier is no stranger to important loads and long trips; throughout his 16-years with Whitewood, he has received awards for his expertise, including Motor Carriers of Montana Driver of the Year in 2009 (when he also joined the 1 Million Mile Club), and 2016.
Wilson noted that it is an honor to be able to deliver the special gift for the nation’s enjoyment, and Spiekermeier is looking forward to the trip, as it will allow him to drive one of the more posh luxury model rigs available to truck drivers.
Sneaky will sit behind the wheel of a specially outfitted Kenworth T680 Advantage to haul the Capitol Christmas tree. Bearing a unique wrap-decal, those who see the truck will note the colorful message, “Big Sky, Big Tree, Big Journey” alongside Whitewood Transport’s logo.
The interior of the rig is designed for the comfort of the driver in mind – a just reward for a man with over 1.6 million accident-free miles on his driving record. Its 76-inch sleeper is loaded with the “Driver Studio” package options, including a 180-degree swivel passenger seat and rotating table for two. A drawer-style refrigerator also leaves space for a microwave, and a premium audio package will have Sneaky cruising along to the soundtrack of his choice. The swivel T.V. mount can handle a 28-inch flat screen, and the sleeper leaves room for a full-size wardrobe space for hanging clothes, large storage space under the bunk and an 8-inch thick, luxury coil mattress.
While it may sound like he is being spoiled, Wilson explained that Spiekermeier has been an asset to the company and the industry, as well as a good friend. “His knowledge of equipment and how to load and transport it has been invaluable to Whitewood, but his demeanor and good heart has outshined even his professional skills,” Wilson said.
Spiekermeier will pick up the 53 rd U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree after it is cut from the Montana forest, November 8. Estimated to be 65-85 feet tall, the tree known as “The People’s Tree” will stand on the west lawn of the Capitol building, bearing at least 3,000 ornaments (the Forest Service has reported about 11,000 ornaments prepared to accompany the tree, so far). The summer’s fires left the tagged tree and companion trees unscathed. The specially designed trailer will carry the tree on a tour of 15 community celebrations before reaching its destination – with ten stops in Montana, followed by North Dakota, South Dakota, Missouri and Kentucky.
Scheduled stops in Montana include: Monday, Nov. 13 in Eureka, then Whitefish. Tuesday, Nov. 14 in Libby, Troy and Trout Creek. Wednesday, Nov. 15 in Thompson Falls and Missoula. Thursday, Nov. 16 in Helena and Great Falls. Friday, Nov. 17 in Harlem and Glasgow. Saturday, Nov. 18 in Glendive.
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