MISSISSAUGA, Ont. — It’s time for Canada’s brave unsung truckers to step up and be recognized.

Bridgestone Firestone Canada has been honouring truck drivers for over 50 years.

Once again, the company is looking for those exceptional truckers whose selfless acts of bravery in the face of adversity is worthy of the Bridgestone Firestone Canadian Truck Hero Award.

As the search for the next Canadian Truck Hero draws to a close, Bridgestone Firestone is asking the public to come forward with their suggestions for this year’s nominees before September 30.

The 2008 winner will be announced in November at the annual meeting of the Ontario Trucking Association. He or she will receive a $3,000 cash prize plus the Truck Hero Award trophy from Bridgestone Firestone Canada; along with a two-day VIP expense-paid trip for two to the award presentation ceremony in Toronto.

The owner of the employer trucking company also receives an accompanying expense-paid trip to the ceremony.

"These are people who perform above and beyond the call of duty," says Jim West, General Manager, Commercial Products, Canada, Bridgestone Bandag Tire Solutions. "With their profound acts of self-sacrifice and heroism, they not only ensure the safety of our highways, but also inspire others to carry out selfless acts of valour in the face of danger."

Nomination forms, additional information about the award and driver qualifications can be found here.