ATA highlights truckers’ response to COVID-19 pandemic during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

ARLINGTON, Va. — Today, Sept. 14, the American Trucking Associations (ATA), along with thousands of its members and partners, the American Trucking Associations began its weeklong celebration of America’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers in honor of 2020 National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, which began Sept. 13 and continues through Sept. 19.

“The critical impact and service of the professional men and women behind the wheel who drive our economy forward every day can never be understated,” said Chris Spear, ATA president and CEO.

“National Truck Driver Appreciation week provides a chance for America to honor and thank these national heroes, let them know how much we appreciate them, and tell their remarkable stories,” he continued. “On behalf of the American Trucking Associations, we all are honored to take this time to recognize these extraordinary men and women.”

Celebrated annually, National Truck Driver Appreciation Week gives the trucking industry a formal opportunity to recognize and show gratitude for the importance, sacrifice and contributions made by professional truck drivers across the nation, who safely and securely transport more than 70% of America’s total freight every year. More than 80% of U.S. communities rely exclusively on truck drivers to deliver their goods and products, allowing rural communities to enjoy the same modern comforts as metropolitan areas.

This year, the week is being celebrated virtually due to the challenges of COVID-19. While in previous years, award presentations, barbecues and other gatherings were common driver-appreciation activities, this year’s events, in partnership with ATA, will feature promotions and celebrations hosted and sponsored by large and small motor carriers, state trucking associations, trucking industry-related companies and America’s Road Team Captains.

The ongoing COVID pandemic gives this year’s celebration special meaning, as professional drivers have truly delivered for the country in their work to keep communities supplied and the economy moving forward. During the pandemic, the industry has seen a growing public recognition of the importance of America’s truck drivers. From children on the side of the road waving “I Heart Trucks” signs to a formal recognition ceremony with President Donald Trump on the White House lawn, people everywhere have gone above and beyond to thank the men and women behind the wheel.

“There isn’t an American in any community today that isn’t impacted by the work of professional truck drivers,” said Randy Guillot, ATA chairman and president of Triple G Express and Southeastern Motor Freight in New Orleans.

“America’s truck drivers provide for our families and uplift our country, often in the face of immense obstacles, and their efforts must never be taken for granted,” Guillot continued. “From the bottom of my heart, I want to thank each and every driver for the important work they do, and encourage all Americans to do the same.”

The Trucker News Staff

The Trucker News Staff produces engaging content for not only TheTrucker.com, but also The Trucker Newspaper, which has been serving the trucking industry for more than 30 years. With a focus on drivers, the Trucker News Staff aims to provide relevant, objective content pertaining to the trucking segment of the transportation industry. The Trucker News Staff is based in Little Rock, Arkansas.