TRUCKING FOR THE TAXPAYER
This month’s Readers And Their Rigs comes to us from Deputy Sheriff Robert S. Watkins of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. Based out of Whittier, California, Deputy Watkins works in the Technical Services Division and runs one of the Department’s Federal Excess Property Units - more specifically, a decked-out 1988 Peterbilt 379. Covering the 11 western states, Deputy Watkins and his partner Deputy John McClure pick up excess items from military bases for the Sheriff’s Department. The items vary from toilet paper to heavy machinery, and everything in-between. When the Department expresses a need, Deputy Watkins searches through the military’s inventory on his computer. If he finds something available, it is his job to go pick it up. The program was started back in 1969 and was designed to save taxpayer’s money. Deputy Watkins attends local truck shows whenever possible to educate the public about the program and have some fun. The beige-colored truck (one of two) is powered by a 444 Cummins and features a 13-speed tranny, a 254” wheelbase, extra lights and chrome, and recently added full fenders (which he won in a raffle at the Cherokee Truck Show last May). The truck pulls either a drop-deck, a flatbed or a 45-foot van, depending on the load. Robert has been a Deputy Sheriff for over 24 years and really enjoys his job - especially since he got the gig to drive the rig three years ago. With a background in trucking, he was perfectly suited for the position. Look for Deputy Watkins and his clean Pete at a truck show near you or out on the road, working hard, helping save taxpayers over $4 million a year. Thanks Bob! |
