On Friday, August 14, North Carolina State Trooper Joe D. Berrong II, 38, of North Wilkesboro, accepted the Jimmy K. Ammons North American Inspectors Grand Champion Award -- the highest honor for roadside inspectors in the United States.
During the 23rd annual event held in St. Louis, Mo., Berrong competed against 51 other roadside inspectors representing jurisdictions across the United States, Canada and Mexico, earning the title of North American Inspectors Grand Champion. Contestants were evaluated in six categories. All six categories were timed events and compiled for the title of Grand Champion.
The event, which is held by the Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance, recognizes the best of the best by inviting member jurisdictions throughout North America to participate in the North American Inspectors Championship. According to the NAIC, it is the only event dedicated to recognizing and rewarding commercial vehicle inspector excellence.
Berrong, a 14-year SHP veteran, is currently assigned to the Motor Carrier Enforcement Section, Troop F District 9, located in Conover.
The primary purpose of the State Highway Patrol Motor Carrier Enforcement Administration Section is to promote highway safety, enforce all state and federal laws regulating highway and commercial vehicle operations resulting in reduction in crashes, injuries, and fatalities involving large trucks and buses. Troopers who perform Motor Carrier Enforcement duties ensure that all modes of travel, including commercial motor vehicles, are consistently monitored in order to improve highway safety.