Jan Arne Laberget awarded honorary membership in YTF

– Through tireless efforts, burning commitment and a big heart for both members and the union, Jan Arne has contributed to strengthening the community, pride and visibility of YTF, said union leader Trude Sande when she presented the award.

Laberget was elected as deputy chairman of the Norwegian Freight and Logistics Association in 2006. Three years later he took over as chairman.

Since then, he has been a clear voice for the drivers, always available and always willing to step in when someone needed help.

– He has left a deep mark on the association. It is therefore an honor to award Jan Arne Laberget honorary membership in YTF, said Sande.

– I didn't see it coming

It was a moved and surprised Laberget who received the honorary membership at the national meeting.

– I am surprised and overwhelmed, to put it simply. I didn't see it coming, he said from the podium.

He emphasized that many people have contributed to the victories the association has had.

– It was good to get it, but there are others who deserve it just as much. I thank the old guys on the bus who let logistics into YTF, said Laberget.

– I would like to thank Jim for the work he has done, the secretariat and all the staff, and not least all the members in logistics. They have done a great job in getting the system we have today, he continued.

Made YTF visible throughout Europe

One of the highlights of Laberget's involvement came when he had the entire company car wrapped with the YTF logo and drove it through large parts of Norway.

The logo truck made it all the way to Brussels, where YTF was the first to board the train during an ETF demonstration.

– It is a clear symbol of his dedication. Jan Arne has never been afraid to lead, said Sande.

With the honorary membership, Laberget receives the highest honor YTF can give.

Among the successes he has worked towards are more and better 24-hour rest stops, the mobility package, and the generalization of minimum rates for trucks, and later vans.

– He has put in a lot of effort to elevate the profession and create pride. His commitment has been indispensable to YTF, said Sande.

Several honored with professional rings

At the national meeting, professional rings were also awarded to several people who have done outstanding work for the association and its members.

Among them was Jim Klungnes, who led YTF until he resigned at the national conference.

These individuals received awards for their efforts:

• Petter Louis Pettersen
• Helge Drablos
• Harald Grimelund
• Kjell Nesheim
• Jim Klungnes