Earlier this month, AGCO Application Equipment awarded the 2011 Operator of the Year award to Gary “Butch” Hammond, an operator with Cargill Inc., in Alma, Neb. Hammond’s hard work and accomplishments were celebrated on December 1, 2011, at the Agricultural Retailers Association (ARA) Conference and Exposition in Boca Raton, Fla., when he was presented a new Harley-Davidson motorcycle.
AGCO commended Hammond for his steadfast commitment to doing the right thing and going the extra mile during his 27-year career, which includes applying nutrients and protectants on more than 1.3 million acres of crops. Hammond is a trusted expert, mentor and friend to fellow operators at Cargill Inc., and he and Bonnie, his wife of 35 years, have five children and also have been certified foster care parents providing love, guidance and support to 11 foster children in need.
For the past six years, Operator of the Year recognizes the outstanding achievements and professionalism of the agriculture industry’s premier custom applicators. Ag retailers from across North America nominate their best custom applicators. Judging criteria for Operator of the Year included exceptional service, professionalism, personal character and community enrichment. A panel of judges narrowed the entries to four finalists. Hammond and three other finalists traveled as guests of AGCO to the ARA Conference and Exposition to be recognized for their accomplishments.
For more information about the 2011 Operator of the Year finalists, visit http://www.applylikeapro.com.