Truck Driver & Army Veteran Cory Troxell Drives Off With Big Win
The Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award ceremony took place on December 14th at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C., where Cory was presented with the grand prize—a fully loaded Kenworth T680 Signature Edition truck valued at nearly $200,000. This life-changing award will enable Cory to fulfill his dream of becoming an independent owner-operator and establish himself as a business owner working with Stevens Transport.
Launched in 2016, the program aims to promote careers in the transportation industry for transitioning military Veterans, National Guard members, and Reservists. This prestigious award highlights the hard work, dedication, and achievements of veterans who have chosen trucking as their next chapter.
Cory Troxell’s journey to this recognition is a testament to his resilience, service, and commitment. Born into a military family at Fort Hood, TX, Cory was inspired to serve his country following the events of 9/11. He enlisted in the Army in 2004 immediately after high school and went on to serve with distinction. During his second combat tour in Iraq (Mosul) in 2009, Cory was severely wounded in an enemy IED attack, an event that earned him the Purple Heart. Despite the challenges, Cory demonstrated immense strength and perseverance, continuing his service in the Army until his retirement in 2024.
Throughout his military career, Cory served in some of the Army’s most renowned armor battalions and cavalry squadrons, with operational assignments in Iraq, Korea, and Kuwait. His dedication to service has been mirrored by his family. His father currently drives for Walmart, his uncle drives for Sigma, and his son, Cory, proudly serves on active duty in the U.S. Army.
Upon retiring from the Army, Cory’s transition to the trucking industry was a natural fit. Following in his family’s footsteps, he joined Stevens Transport and quickly distinguished himself as an exceptional driver. His hard work, discipline, and leadership skills honed during his military service have played a significant role in his success.
“I honestly thought after coming out of the military that you fade away. No one thinks about you anymore; you’re done. But this is proof that’s not true,” said an emotional Cory Troxell during the ceremony. “I cannot thank Stevens Transport enough. To everyone at the company, thank you, thank you, thank you,” he added.
Angela Horowitz, Vice President of Stevens Transport, shared her excitement for Cory’s recognition: “We could not have nominated a better candidate than Cory Troxell. Veterans are so important to our country, and Cory brings commitment, discipline, focus, professionalism, integrity, and safety to the job. Those are the cornerstones our company is built on.”
The Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award is a collaborative initiative by Kenworth, Hiring Our Heroes, and Fastport, aimed at supporting military veterans transitioning to the trucking industry. Cory Troxell is the third Stevens Transport driver to win this prestigious award, solidifying the company’s commitment to veterans and the transportation industry.
Stevens Transport is incredibly proud of Cory’s accomplishment and grateful for his contributions to both our country and the trucking community. Please join us in congratulating Cory Troxell on this well-deserved recognition and in thanking him for his service and dedication.
Cory’s story exemplifies the values of hard work, perseverance, and patriotism. We look forward to seeing him continue to excel on the road as a symbol of excellence and inspiration for veterans transitioning into new careers. Congratulations, Cory!