President Bush has written a letter to the American Trucking Associations to congratulate truck drivers and fleets during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.
“Across America, professional truck drivers keep our country moving and support our citizens as they conduct business,” Bush wrote. “Our nation relies on the men and women of our transportation industry to sustain critical networks of commerce and advance our economy.
“I applaud professional truck drivers and their motor carrier employers for your hard work and dedication to promoting high standards of safety,” the president continued. “Your commitment to excellence increases efficiency and production across our nation and advances American prosperity. Your efforts also reflect the values that make our country strong.”
National Truck Driver Appreciation Week is being observed Aug. 21-27. During the week, the nation’s motor carriers, state trucking associations and trucking industry manufacturers and suppliers are honoring drivers in various ways — million-mile and safety awards, cash bonuses or gifts, an extra paid day off, a cup of coffee, even a simple windshield cleaning.
America’s truck drivers deserve at least a week of praise for their safe, efficient and timely hauls, said Bill Graves, ATA president and CEO.
“With trucking delivering nearly 70 percent of the freight moved in this country, and with more than 80 percent of our communities depending solely on trucking to deliver their food, clothing and other necessities, it is an important job, and the men and women who do it deserve our thanks,” Graves said.
ATA is selling Appreciation Week calling cards, caps, shirts, banners and pins. Call 800-282-5463 or visit www.ntdaw.org.
