Hartselle UPS Center package truck driver Rickey Robinson receives a Circle of Honor leather jacket after driving for 25 years without an accident. Presenting the award are Jack Justes, center manager and Doug Wood, supervisor. | Clif Knight

A United Parcel Service (UPS) package truck driver who works out of the Hartselle center was awarded UPS’s Circle of Honor award on Monday for a 25-year safe driving record.

Rickey Robinson of Double Springs received a leather jacket and Circle of Honor uniform patches from center manager Jack Justes and supervisor Doug Wood to commemorate his achievement. He was also honored at a breakfast meeting, which was attended by his wife Cathy, his supervisors and fellow employees.

Robinson works a delivery route in the Double Springs area, driving about 215 miles a day, Monday through Friday.

“With as many vehicles as there are on the roads today, there’s always a chance that you’ll be involved in an accident,” Robinson stated, “but we have a strict set of safety rules to follow and we have regular safety meetings to help us stay focused on them.” He attributed his safe driving record to being able to communicate with other motorists, defensively speaking.

“I still feel fortunate that I was able to drive so long without an accident,” he said. “I will wear the Circle of Honor patch with pride. Being a safe driver means a lot to me.”

“This is a big achievement for Rickey (Robinson),” said Justes, “and a great milestone for our center. It’s a lifetime award and something that all of our drivers seek to achieve,” Wood added. “He goes way beyond what is expected as far as safety and service to his customers is concerned. “I’ve noticed that the employees who give the best service to their customers are the safest drivers. Rickey (Robinson) fits that role.”