MALCOLM COSTON AS A HIGHWAY ANGEL

The Truckload Carriers Association (TCA) has recognized truck driver Malcolm Coston of Mebane, N.C., as a Highway Angel for helping two stranded motorists on I-80 in Iowa.

According to a letter of gratitude written by Yvonne De La Rosa Thayer, the daughter of the two people Coston helped, her parents were traveling from Ind. to Denver when the driver's side rear tire blew.

As the couple sat stranded on the side of the road, it seemed nobody wanted to offer assistance in the 98 degree heat. About that time, Coston heard over the radio that a disabled car was on the side of the interstate and made a point of stopping. When he did, he asked if the husband and wife were okay and finished changing the spare tire for them. He was offered payment for his time, but refused the money.

A driver for EPES Transport System of Greensboro, N.C., Coston received a Highway Angel lapel pin, certificate and patch for his efforts. EPES Transport also received a certificate acknowledging that one of their drivers has been recognized as a Highway Angel.

Since its inception in Aug. 1997, the Highway Angels program has made an effort to recognize drivers, like Coston, for the unusual kindness, courtesy and courage they have shown others while on the job. TCA has received letters and e-mails from people across North America nominating truck drivers for the program.