So, here I am, beginning probably the hardest chapter I’ve ever written, and I’m dreading every word of it. When I started this book, I was excited about each chapter I wrote, but not so much this one. All I can say is that when Herb Gardner took that corner office, the morale among drivers plummeted—my personal opinion, and no one else’s. But then, my opinion was the only one that mattered.
I started contemplating a move around 1992. A company called American Freightways entered Indianapolis in 1982 and began growing rapidly. In 1992, I submitted an application, but according to rumors in the grapevine, former Overnite employees gave me a bad recommendation.
So, I started talking to Conway Central Express drivers. I talked and talked for about two years. But more on that later. The key point was that I avoided union companies for one reason—because I didn’t think I needed anyone to protect my job. More on that later, too.
The pressure, disappointment, and unbelievable misery inside me kept worsening day by day. By September, I knew I could hold off until September 21st—my 12-year anniversary of being hired. On that day, I went directly to see Charles, who was now the Operations Manager. I told him I needed to talk. I poured out my heart about everything I was feeling and thinking, and he listened very carefully. My eyes welled up because I’m an emotional person, and I was genuinely hurting about the situation. I’ve never been good at adapting to change, as I stated earlier in my chapters. Since Union Pacific and Mr. Gardner arrived, the close-knit family feeling at Overnite had slowly diminished. Most people adapted, but with my childhood and upbringing, I simply couldn’t.
After I finished, Charles looked me in the eye and asked, “Are you positive this is what you really want?” I asked, “Let me ask you one question, Charles: you know how good everything was here just a few years ago? Do you honestly think it will get any better?” He replied, “Gerry, I really don’t believe it will.” I got up, shook his hand, and told him it had been a pleasure working with him. I thanked him for his honesty and left his office. I then went to dispatch to say goodbye to Rob, who was now a dispatcher. I can’t remember if I looked up Tom to say goodbye—probably not, because I hate goodbyes. I said goodbye to the drivers in the drivers’ room, then walked out the door, down the stairs, and through the gate. It was over—very, very sad.
Dedication
This story is dedicated to the memory of three remarkable men whose friendship, guidance, and integrity left a lasting mark not only on my life but on the soul of Overnite Transportation.
- Charles Spinks— A leader with heart, who listened with compassion and spoke with honesty. Your integrity and quiet strength helped steer me through one of the hardest decisions of my career. I will never forget your kindness.
- Rick Combs— God bless you, my friend. You were a beacon in my life when I needed it most. You were my first driver friend here, and I will never forget you. May you forever rest in peace, my brother.
- Sonny Strong— Your name says it all. You brought strength and spirit to every mile of the road and every room you entered. You lived true to the phrase “Our People Make the Difference,” and I was fortunate to know you.
- Gary Butrum— A fellow driver, a good man, and a solid friend. Your presence made the journey more bearable, and your memory continues to ride with me even now.
- https://youtu.be/kR4Mc_mOm9U?si=lbFaebFVeardLvWs
May your legacies live on in the words of this story and in the lives of all who had the honor of working beside you.
My Trucker Life 