Wyatt becomes 16th Walmart driver to log three-million, accident-free miles

BY BROOKS TAYLOR

Mt. Pleasant News

Jack Wyatt has long thought the world has looked best through a windshield. And that?s where Wyatt always preferred to view it.

Wyatt became the 16th driver from the Mt. Pleasant Walmart Distribution Center to join the three-million mile, accident-free club in February and was feted at a July 15 ceremony at the distribution center.

Only a Walmart distribution center in Texas has more drivers to achieve the distinction. Walmart has 42 general merchandise distribution centers across the United States.

?All I ever wanted to do was drive a truck,? Wyatt, of Iowa City, reflected during his recognition ceremony. ?I guess I just enjoy being around big stuff,? he explained.

He said he is honored to have achieved the mark and said it was his goal. ?I hoped that I would reach three million miles accident-free. That is what I was striving for.?

Wyatt, 65, started out driving wreckers and gradually worked his way up to 18 wheelers, which he has been driving for 40 years ? 28 of which have been as a Walmart driver.

During most of his career at Walmart, Wyatt has been on the road all week. Originally, he would leave on Sunday and return Friday. Now, he doesn?t hit the pavement until Monday morning and returns to Mt. Pleasant on Friday. His territory includes Iowa and surrounding states ? Illinois, Missouri and Nebraska.

Driving, he said, has become potentially more hazardous, in recent years ? largely due to the cellphone. ?Every day becomes more of a challenge,? Wyatt begins. ?It used to be drivers just reading but now they are talking and texting.?

There have been many close calls, he recalled, during his Walmart career, but fortunately, he has escaped unscathed. ?There are probably a lot (of near accidents) that I have forgotten.?

He has also driven through his share of bad weather, but quickly notes that he would rather drive through a snowstorm than meet a driver who is texting.

In front of his place at the head table July 15 was a photo of him when he began his career at Walmart. The black beard and hair have now turned grey, the face has a few more lines and he quips that he is no longer that guy. ?Back then, I could jump into the truck. Now I have to step into it very carefully.?

As part of his award for joining the exclusive three-million mile, accident-free club, Wyatt receives a new baby blue tractor, equipped with a refrigerator, microwave and flatscreen television. He hadn?t driven the truck before being honored for the achievement, but he is chomping at the bit. ?I just love that truck, I love everything about it.?

Being a truck driver, Wyatt admits, can be tough on family life. ?You have to have someone special to put up with it,? he said as he pointed to his girlfriend Toni. He also has two daughters and three grandchildren.

?At times, it was difficult,? he said, referring to his time away from his family. ?I missed everything my oldest daughter was involved in but made some adjustments and saw some of my younger daughter?s activities.?

Although he has been blessed with good health, Wyatt said driving takes a toll. ?I am just worn out, it comes with the territory.?

He said he can see the end of the road ? ?I may drive another two years? ? and said it will be a bittersweet experience when he parks the truck for the last time. That?s because he has enjoyed every mile but is looking forward to the next curve in life?s road.