USAL honors ten associates on their Million Mile Club achievements

Astoundingly, the group of "Million Milers" collectively accounts for 156 years of service to USAL and more than 11 million safe, consecutive miles without a preventable accident.

September 4, 2025

The USAL brand of companies is pleased to recognize the Million Mile Club Class of 2024, honoring eight associates joining the Club for the first time and two associates achieving the two-million-mile milestone.

The Class of 2024, confirmed and recognized this year, is Riley Alfred, Elvin Ambrose, Franklin Branch, Ed Buecheler, Michael Cooper, Larry Grant, Jason Gundlach, Rick Hanner, Jimmie Lenoir, and Anthony Salas.

"Reaching the industry's driving pinnacle of one million miles is an enormous personal accomplishment," said William Mauldin, senior vice president of operations. "Our associates' feats are the result of decades of unrelenting focus, responsibility, and care. Their achievements set an incredibly high standard for what it means to be a professional carhauler at USAL, and we are honored to recognize them for their remarkable dedication."

What makes this year especially significant is the size of the class. It is unusual for a carrier to see so many associates reach this milestone in a single year. The induction of ten drivers into the Class of 2024 highlights not only the longevity of our team but also USAL's deep culture of safety and professionalism across the fleet.

Their Own Words

"Carhauling can be tough and complicated, and it’s not something to take for granted," said Anthony Salas, a Million Miler with 10 years of service. "Starting out at USAL with no experience in the industry was a real challenge, but over time I’ve grown into a more mature driver and sharpened my skills. Reaching one million miles is a tremendous accomplishment, but for me it comes down to doing the work I love. With God on my side, I can’t lose."

Jason Gundlach, a Houston-based driver with 12 years of service said, "I always knew I wanted to become a Million Miler and earn my own reserved parking space. But reaching this milestone doesn't just happen. It's taken years of building experience, skill, and patience to get here. And I'll admit, a bit of good luck has helped along the way, too."

Two Million Miles

• Michael Cooper, 40 years of service, Class of 2011

• Rick Hanner, 19 years of service, Class of 2015
  

One Million Miles

• Riley Alfred, 12 years of service

• Elvin Ambrose, 10 years of service

• Franklin Branch, 19 years of service

• Ed Buecheler, 13 years of service

• Larry Grant, 10 years of service

• Jason Gundlach, 12 years of service

• Jimmie Lenoir, 11 years of service

• Anthony Salas, 10 years of service

Recipients of the one-million-mile award each receive their choice of gifts, reserved truck parking, and $5,000 cash. Associates who reach two million miles receive the gifts, $10,000 cash, and a $10,000 travel award to share with their families.

USAL congratulates the Million Mile Club Class of 2024. Behind every mile are the sacrifices, long hours, and dedication of not only our drivers but also their families who support them along the way. Their collective commitment reflects the very best of USAL and sets a standard for the entire carhauling industry. We are grateful for the example they set for all who share the road.