At a recent news conference during the American Trucking Associations’ Management Conference & Exhibition, Jennifer Best of Pryor, Oklahoma, was presented the keys to the final Peterbilt Model 389x by Rush Enterprises CEO W.M. “Rusty” Rush. Jennifer, who won the truck through Rush Truck Centers’ sweepstakes, entered by purchasing a $50 raffle ticket on a whim. The sweepstakes, which generated about 8,000 ticket sales, successfully raised $500,000, with all proceeds donated to the Wounded Warrior Project.
Jennifer and her husband, Shane, are the owners of Shane Best Trucking, a small company specializing in dump trucks, which they inherited from Shane’s mother three years ago. Deeply rooted in trucking, the Best family has been part of the industry for 25 years. For Jennifer, the win is more than a stroke of luck; it’s an opportunity to expand their fleet and carry forward a family legacy. “Trucking runs in our family,” she shared, noting that her father was a truck driver and that her two sons are also involved in the business. Winning the Peterbilt 389x has left her and her family in shock but equally grateful to contribute to the Wounded Warrior Project, an organization they support wholeheartedly.
The final Model 389x holds an iconic place in the trucking industry, symbolizing more than just a vehicle. Rush Truck Centers acquired the truck with a $1.25 million bid during a Peterbilt-hosted auction in February 2023. Funds from this bid were directed to Wreaths Across America and Truckers Against Trafficking (TAT), each receiving a generous $750,000. Rusty Rush described the sweepstakes as a unique chance to support valuable causes, especially the Wounded Warrior Project. “This is a unique and very special truck, and we knew we could do a lot of good for a lot of people with it,” Rush said, expressing his pride in the impact of the fundraiser.
Brea Kratzert Todd, vice president of business development for the Wounded Warrior Project, emphasized how contributions like these are essential to helping veterans and their families access life-changing services. “The effects of war and military service can last a lifetime,” she stated, highlighting that Rush Enterprises and families like the Bests fuel the programs that provide veterans with resources and support after their service.
The announcement also included an inspiring appearance by Sal Gonzalez, a U.S. Marine and Wounded Warrior Project ambassador who suffered severe injuries, including the loss of his left leg, while serving in Iraq. Gonzalez shared reflections on his time in combat, revealing the struggles he faced after returning to civilian life. After enduring a difficult period following his discharge, the Wounded Warrior Project reached out, helping him navigate his trauma and find camaraderie with other veterans experiencing similar challenges. This connection ultimately led him to a career in music, allowing him to share his experiences and help others through his songs.
One of Gonzalez’s most impactful works is his song “Heroes,” which he performed during the event. The song, inspired by the experience of being thanked by an older Vietnam veteran, questions what defines a hero and honors those who do not make it home. With lyrics like “Heroes Ain’t the Ones Who Make it Home,” Gonzalez’s performance resonated deeply with Rusty Rush and others in the audience. Reflecting on Gonzalez’s song, Rush said it held profound meaning, even moving him to tears.
Jennifer Best’s win not only celebrates a family’s legacy in the trucking industry but also shines a light on the importance of supporting veterans who continue to navigate life after service. Through the sweepstakes and the stories shared by veterans like Sal Gonzalez, Rush Truck Centers’ donation to the Wounded Warrior Project highlights the lasting impact of giving back to those who have served.
Source:
https://www.ttnews.com/articles/woman-wins-peterbilt-model-389x
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