Editorial: Thanking America’s Truck Drivers

Once a year, for one week in August, we take time out of our routines to stop and thank the men and women who drive our trucks.

This, of course, is not to say that we only appreciate our 3.1 million drivers for this one week. But having this dedicated week — which includes the National Truck Driving Championships, held this year in New Orleans — ensures that we all take the time to formally say thank you.

To all the people who make it happen, who account for the almost $500 billion in freight revenue the nation’s carriers billed last year for carrying almost 8 billion tons of cargo, America’s trucking industry expresses its gratitude.

In addition, Transport Topics presents the complete text of a proclamation put out earlier this month by the White House:

Warm greetings to all those celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, sponsored by the American Trucking Associations. I am proud to salute the outstanding men and women who are participating in the National Truck Driving Championships in New Orleans as part of this year’s observance.

Today, Americans are enjoying a time of unprecedented prosperity and economic growth, and America’s professional truck drivers play a vital role in this success story. Traveling almost two billion miles each year with more than six billion tons of freight, these hardworking men and women safely transport essential goods to every corner of our nation. Every home, community, school, and business in America benefits from their skill, effort, and commitment to safety.

As our nation observes National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, I encourage all Americans to join me in thanking the more than 3 million men and women across our country who deliver our goods by truck for a living. Their efforts and dedication ensure that the trucking industry will continue to strengthen America’s potential for innovation, growth, and prosperity in this new century.

Best wishes to all for a memorable observance.