This week is National Truck Driver Appreciation Week (NTDAW), set aside to honor professional truck drivers nationwide.
Motor carriers, state trucking associations, manufacturers, as well as shippers, customers, highway patrol and local communities are among those who have organized events to honor the men and women who deliver America, American Trucking Assns. (ATA) pointed out. The week kicked off yesterday with celebrations running through Sept. 17.
There are over 3.2 million professional truck drivers — delivering the goods U.S. consumers need every day of the year. Logging over 408 billion miles per year, trucks delivered 8.8 billion tons of freight in 2009, or 68% of total U.S. freight tonnage, according to the American Trucking Assns.
“Professional truck drivers are more essential to the national economy than ever before, and they’re delivering their loads safely and professionally,” ATA said.
Celebrations this week range from safe driving awards to cookouts at company facilities to windshield cleaning at travel plazas. Many events include the families who support their loved ones out on the road.
Governors and local leaders are issuing proclamations in honor of the professional truck driver, and industry executives are hitting the airwaves to let America know there is a safe professional behind the wheel who deserves a “pat on the back,” ATA said.
ATA is seeking amateur video submissions showing why professional truck drivers are essential. The deadline for contest submissions is Sept. 21, allowing entries to be promoted during NTDAW festivities. For more information on the third annual contest, visit www.truckline.com/Programs/ntdaw.
ATA offers a number of NTDAW official gifts including hats, T-shirts, stainless steel water bottles, travel tumblers, duffel bags, and playing card sets and cases — all featuring the 2011 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week logo. In addition, celebration banners are available for organizations sponsoring events. To view the official gifts, visit www.ATABusinessSolutions.com.
