MISSISSAUGA Ont. — The search for a new Canadian hero among the ranks of the nation’s professional truckers begins today with the 2002 Bridgestone/Firestone Canadian Truck Hero Award campaign.

The award is presented annually to a Canadian trucker who exhibits courage, quick thinking and integrity in the face of an emergency.

“2001 was one of our most successful years in terms of awareness for the award,” says Jerry Priddle, of Bridgestone/Firestone Canada. “We were able to reach out to both the community and media — two key groups who can help us spot a potential Truck Hero. We rely on those who are on the scene to help us recognize potential award winners.”

Without a doubt, he explains, truckers are one of the vital parts of our economy.

“Every day thousands of truckers have a great responsibility to all Canadians — get there on time, get there safe. They are true knights of the highway,” adds Priddle. “As the previous winners have proven, truck drivers are willing to put their lives on the line to save others. Our 2001 winner is a terrific example and I’m sure this year’s winner will prove equally worthy.”

The winner will receive the award at the Ontario Trucking Association annual convention in November.

Nominations are welcomed from across the country and must be received by Oct. 1. Nominees must be Canadian residents and full-time commercial tractor trailer drivers working for a Canadian trucking company. The incident being recognized must have taken place in North America between Oct. 1, 2001 and Sept. 30, of this year. A police statement or affidavit corroborating driver actions is required with the nomination.

Nomination forms and additional information is also available by calling 877-377-7002 or on the Web site, www.truckhero.ca.