The 2024 U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree is on its way from Alaska to Washington, D.C., with veteran truckers Fred Austin and John Schank behind the wheel.
The journey: Starting October 26, the tree is making its way from the Tongass National Forest in Alaska, traveling on a Kenworth T680, before reaching its final destination in D.C. on November 22.
- The journey includes a barge trip to Seattle, followed by a road trip over 4,000 miles with several community events scheduled along the way.
- The Kenworth T680, equipped with cutting-edge technology and comforts, is wrapped in graphics celebrating the forests of Alaska.
The drivers: Austin and Schank have been with Lynden Transport since 1975, boasting a combined 10 million accident-free miles. Schank previously transported the tree in 2015.
Both drivers earn respect in the trucking community for their incredible safety records and decades of service, a testament to the vital role truckers play.
What's next: The tree will make stops in several states, participating in community events on its cross-country journey, reported Kenworth.
Upon arrival, a tree lighting ceremony is scheduled for early December in coordination with the U.S. Speaker of the House.