Old Dominion Honors Harold Hyde with Prestigious Award
THOMASVILLE, N.C. — Harold Hyde, a pickup and delivery driver from Nashville, Tennessee, has been awarded the 2020 John Yowell OD Family Spirit Award by Old Dominion Freight Line Inc. This annual recognition highlights his exceptional bravery, heroism, and unwavering commitment to helping others.
In August 2019, while driving on McCrory Lane in Davidson County, Tennessee, Hyde noticed vehicles swerving to avoid an object in the roadway. Upon closer inspection, he discovered that the object was a 4-year-old boy. Without pause, Hyde maneuvered his Old Dominion tractor-trailer across both lanes to block traffic and quickly exited his vehicle. The boy, who was autistic and nonverbal, had wandered out of his house after unlocking the front door. A fellow good Samaritan who stopped to help Hyde contacted the police, ensuring the child was safely returned to his family.
“I am humbled to be recognized with the John Yowell award,” Hyde expressed. “Being associated with Mr. Yowell’s legacy and previous award recipients is inspiring. My role allows me to meet wonderful individuals in Nashville and beyond, and I will continue to pursue excellence while serving my community. I’m just grateful to have the opportunity to positively impact someone else’s life.”
About the Award
Founded in 2011 in memory of John Yowell, the former executive vice president and COO of the company, this award reflects a family-oriented culture that is central to Old Dominion’s operations. The “OD Family Spirit” award honors an employee who exemplifies a sincere dedication to assisting others. Nominations are submitted by employees who recognize their peers for their daily acts of care and excellence, with finalists chosen from Old Dominion’s 20,000 workforce.
Hyde’s Dedication to Service
Hyde, who has been with Old Dominion since 2007, was honored for his extraordinary actions that exemplify the OD Family Spirit through his heroic initiatives, compassionate nature, and commitment to aiding others.
In addition to his award-winning act, Hyde helped another stranger in September 2019. While on his delivery route, he spotted an overturned SUV containing a pregnant woman trapped inside. Hyde hurried to her aid, rescuing her before emergency responders arrived.
Recognition and Charitable Contribution
“Harold’s unwavering commitment to exceeding expectations for his community and Old Dominion customers truly distinguishes him,” stated Greg Gantt, president and CEO of Old Dominion Freight Line. “His remarkable instinct for being in the right place at the right time and his humility exemplify what it means to be a John Yowell OD Family Spirit Award winner.”
As part of the award, Hyde received $1,000 to donate to a charity of his choice, which he directed to the True Joy Community Program. This organization aims to provide nutritious meals and snacks to children in low-income areas, helping to combat hunger and promote overall health and nutrition.
