EXHIBIT 24 POWER OF ATTORNEY KNOW ALL MEN BY THESE PRESENTS, that the undersigned constitutes and appoints Frank L. Conner, his true and lawful attorney in fact and agent with full powers of substitution and resubstitution, for him and in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities to sign the Annual Report on Form 10-K, and any or all amendments thereto (including post-effective amendments), to be filed by American Freightways Corporation in accordance with the rules and regulations governed by the Securities and Exchange Commission. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned hereby sets his hand this 18th day of January, 1996. /s/Ben A. Garrison - ------------------------------------ Ben A. Garrison, Director State of Arkansas ) ) County of Boone ) This 18th day of January, 1996, personally came before me Ben A. Garrison, who, being by me duly sworn says that he is a Director for American Freightways Corporation, an Arkansas corporation, and that said writing was signed and sealed by him, on behalf of said corporation, by its authority given. /s/Robbie Schriner ------------------------------------ Notary Public My commission expires: February 1, 2002 -------------------- (SEAL)