ATA, America's Road Team Celebrate Veterans and Active Military Members

ARLINGTON, Va., Nov. 11, 2017 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- This Veterans Day, American Trucking Associations and America's Road Team recognize the men and women who served in the U.S. Armed Forces, and thank the thousands of veterans who continue to serve America as trucking industry professionals.

"Last month, President Trump referred to all 3.5 million truck drivers as 'heroes,' but today we want to honor the special heroes, especially those within the trucking industry, who served in the U.S. military to preserve the rights and freedoms that we exercise each day," said ATA President and CEO Chris Spear. "The trucking industry continues to fight hard to welcome returning service members into fulfilling careers in trucking. We believe that veterans have the skills and attitude to succeed in our industry and are grateful that so many heroes continue to serve the country as trucking professionals."

The ATA stands with the nation's veterans and continues to work with the government to make it easier for veterans to transition to satisfying post-military careers in the trucking industry.

"If you stop at any truck stop in the country, you'll see men and women of all ages and backgrounds climb out of tractor-trailers wearing ball caps or badges to signify their pride as veterans," said America's Road Team Captain Stephen Richardson, professional truck driver for Big G Express and veteran of the U.S. Army (1986-1991). "As a truck driver and veteran, I'm proud that our industry has a legacy of providing great jobs for veterans. Our industry recognizes that veterans contribute to safer highways, professionalism, and getting the job done right, and I'm honored to share the highway with such heroes."

The trucking industry's patriotism and appreciation of veterans is best exemplified by the industry's avid participation in Wreaths Across America every year. Truck drivers, industry professionals and trucking suppliers volunteer in veterans' cemeteries throughout the globe each December to honor the fallen heroes who fought to preserve America's freedoms. This December, ATA's Share the Road trailer, pulled by a new Mack Anthem, will once again participate in the Wreaths Across America convoy from Maine to Arlington, Va. carrying thousands of wreaths to be distributed at Arlington National Cemetery.

ATA also participates in Hiring Our Heroes and encourages ATA member companies to get involved in veteran hiring programs.

"Veterans Day is a great opportunity for us to show appreciation for the millions of Americans who sacrificed time and talent to ensure our country is defended and our freedoms remain secured," said America's Road Team Captain Earl Taylor, professional truck driver for Penske Logistics and veteran of the U.S. Army (1983-1989). "My colleagues in the trucking industry do not take for granted the honorable service of America's veterans. We know that our livelihoods are tied to the military's strength and perseverance."

American Trucking Associations is the largest national trade association for the trucking industry. Through a federation of 50 affiliated state trucking associations and industry-related conferences and councils, ATA is the voice of the industry America depends on most to move our nation's freight. Follow ATA on Twitter or on Facebook. Trucking Moves America Forward.

SOURCE American Trucking Associations