From the early days of interstate transportation to the expansion and growth of the industry in the 80s and 90s to the modern trucking industry that is ever-changing with new safety products and technologies, a lot has changed in the trucking industry in the United States. One thing that has remained constant through the decades is the resilience of the American truck driver. Professional truck drivers across the country drive long miles to transport up to 70% of the goods on our store's shelves. And that is something that all Americans should celebrate both this week and every week.
The American truck driver is part of a unique group of people who know how to get the job done. He is the driver who wakes up early in the morning to beat the traffic so he can deliver his cargo on time. She is the driver who double-checks that her equipment is well maintained so that she knows she will safely transport freight down the road. They are men and women who brave the snow and ice, drive forward in the face of wind and rain, and stay alert in the dark of night to do their job safely and effectively. In the face of natural disasters, they are some of the first to sacrifice their time and equipment to get necessary goods to people in need. They do their job without requiring gratitude or asking for thanks. They do it because there is a job to be done, and they will do it to the best of their ability.
To the 3.5 million professional drivers in the United States, we want to pause this week to say thank you and express our gratitude for keeping America rolling. When the country shut down because of COVID in 2020, the nation still needed to keep its shelves full, so you kept driving. Professional truck drivers across the country work long hours, frequently away from home and family for extended periods, keeping our economy and the way of life we enjoy in this country running.
In my experience, truck drivers are some of the kindest, most humble, and most compassionate people you will ever meet. So if you know a truck driver, or if you see a truck driver at a truck stop, say thank you. A simple gesture of gratitude can go a long way in today's world. And who knows, you may end up making a new acquaintance!
From all of us at Thomas Wilson Group, thank you again, and Happy National Truck Driver Appreciation Week!