How ATA Celebrated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week
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American Trucking Associations celebrated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, which ran Sept. 8-14 and honors the trucking industry’s 3.5 million professional truck drivers, with a week of activities.
“Truck drivers play a critical role in the nation’s economy and deserve the recognition that this week brings,” ATA President Chris Spear said. “Beyond delivering office supplies, building materials and school books, truck drivers deliver the tailgate essentials and festive fall favorites that make this time of year so enjoyable.”
As part of the week, state trucking associations, industry suppliers and motor carriers of all sizes host appreciation events for the men and women who safely deliver 71.4% of the country’s total freight tonnage. More than 80% of U.S. communities rely exclusively on truck drivers to deliver their goods and commodities, allowing the nation’s rural communities access to modern comforts.
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ATA celebrated National Truck Driver Appreciation Week with Trucking Day at Nationals Park on Sept. 13.
#ThankATrucker at @Nationals game tonight. pic.twitter.com/uaf3CAelnI — American Trucking (@TRUCKINGdotORG) September 13, 2019
During pregame ceremonies, ATA recognized the 2018 National Truck Driver of the Year David Boyer of ABF Freight, the 2019 National Truck Driving Championships Bendix Grand Champion Scott Woodrome of FedEx Freight and the National Tank Truck Driver of the Year Barbara Herman from K-Limited Carrier.
PHOTO GALLERY: See how ATA, other organizations and companies celebrated trucks
The association also shared other notable achievements in the trucking industry from the past year. Professional truck driver Dion Saiz of FedEx Freight performed the national anthem prior to the division rivalry game between the Atlanta Braves and Washington Nationals.
“This is one of the industry’s proudest weeks because our well-deserving drivers get to receive praise from the general public, media and lawmakers,” said ATA Chairman Barry Pottle, president of Pottle’s Transportation.
