It is rare anyone has had their giant photo displayed on both sides of a massive semi-trailer even once, but Rick Leaton of Marshalltown can now say his helpful smile has been on twice.

Recently, Leaton had completed 50 years of service to the Marshalltown’s Hy-Vee store, and that milestone earned him special distinction. His photo is now displayed on a trailer along with two other Hy-Vee employees.

Fittingly, on Tuesday morning at the store, a large delegation made up of former store colleagues, corporate officials, family and friends helped Leaton celebrate the photo unveiling near the main entrance.

There were hugs and hand-shakes galore as customers entering and departing the store looked on. Leaton first earned the honor of having his photo displayed in 2015 when he completed 40 years of service to the company, which has its corporate headquarters in West Des Moines.

Vicki Leaton, Rick’s wife, was present on Tuesday to witness the unique honor reserved only for those employees who have made significant contributions to the company.

“I am excited. Rick has earned this,” Vicki said gazing at the 70-foot long cab and trailer.

Standing next to Vicki was Rick’s sister, Barb Hand of Marshalltown, who was equally ebullient.

“Fifty years with one company, not many people can say that,” said Hand. “This is well-deserved.”

Leaton said he started his Hy-Vee career as a high school student when the store was previously located in the 1700 block of S. Center Street.

“I was offered an opportunity to work full-time when I graduated,” he said.

Leaton retired from Hy-Vee after his 50th year employment anniversary. He drives a dump and grain truck as well as cutting grass.

Casey Langseth, Marshalltown store director, was on hand for the festivities.

“I did not have a chance to work with Rick, unfortunately,” Langseth said. “But I do see him in the store shopping all of the time and have the opportunity to talk to him. Last week we had a similar presentation honoring two employees here … it gets better and better.”

In 1930, Charles Hyde and David Vrendenburg opened a small general store in Beaconsfield. That store grew to be Hy-Vee – a company with more than 570 business units across nine Midwestern states and sales of more than $13 billion annually. It is employee-owned and was ranked number one of the Best Grocery Stores in America, according to USA TODAY’s 10Best Readers Choice Awards.