Now in its 11th year, the annual program recognizes veterans who have demonstrated leadership, professionalism, and a commitment to safety after entering the trucking industry.

Meet the 2026 Elite 11

The 2026 semi-finalists were selected from nominations submitted by trucking carriers, CDL training schools, private fleets and individuals nationwide. This year’s group represents four branches of the U.S. Armed Forces.

The 2026 Elite 11 includes:

• Jeffrey Barber, U.S. Army, Prime Inc.
• Brandon Ward, U.S. Navy, Werner Enterprises
• Mohammad Arzola, U.S. Marine Corps, H-E-B
• Juan Rosado Lozada, U.S. Marine Corps, Roehl Transport
• Kishawn Forbes, U.S. Navy, Melton Truck Lines
• Gary W. Williams, U.S. Army, Stevens Transport
• Monica Brooks-Buck, U.S. Army, Werner Enterprises
• Jenn Wilken, U.S. Army, Prime Inc.
• Daryus Jones, U.S. Army, Anheuser-Busch
• Daniel Doss, U.S. Air Force, Melton Truck Lines
• Michael R. Bivens, U.S. Marine Corps, Stevens Transport

Several of the semi-finalists completed their CDL training through U.S. Department of Labor Registered Apprenticeship programs, reflecting the continued role apprenticeship pathways play in helping veterans transition into trucking careers.

Registered Apprenticeships Continue to Grow

According to the program’s organizers, about 60% of this year’s nominations came from drivers who are currently participating in or have completed a Registered Apprenticeship program. Five members of the Elite 11 are active apprentices.

Organizers say the apprenticeship model continues to provide veterans with a structured pathway into the trucking industry while helping carriers develop skilled professional drivers.

Winner Will Receive a New Kenworth T680

The overall winner will receive a new Kenworth T680 equipped with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, including the PACCAR MX-13 engine, TX-12 automated transmission and DX-40 tandem rear axles.

The truck also includes DigitalVision Mirrors, Bendix Fusion Adaptive Cruise Control with Stop and Auto Go, Lane Keeping Assist with Torque Assisted Steering, a factory-installed refrigerator and several driver comfort features.

What’s Next?

The semi-finalists will be recognized Sept. 22 and 23 at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in Columbus, Ohio. They will also tour Kenworth’s manufacturing plant in Chillicothe, where the finalists will be announced.

Public voting is scheduled for Nov. 1 through Nov. 11, with the results serving as one factor considered by the selection committee.

The 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award winner will be announced Dec. 14 during the Veteran Ready Summit at the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

For more information about the Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence Award, visit the program’s official website.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 11, 2026

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Kenworth

The post Kenworth Announces 11 Semi-Finalists for 2026 Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The coverage is scheduled to begin in August and will follow this year’s award program through the selection of the winner in December.

Transition Trucking: Driving For Excellence was launched in 2015 by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program to recognize military veterans who have successfully transitioned into professional trucking careers.

Series Will Follow the 2026 Award Program

According to the press release, PodWheels plans to produce between 20 and 25 podcast episodes documenting the 2026 competition, while The Trucker will publish a series of feature articles written by PodWheels founder and executive producer Greg Thompson.

The organizations said the coverage will begin with the announcement of this year’s “Elite 11” semifinalists in early August and continue through the presentation of the award in December.

As part of the project, Thompson plans to interview each of the 11 semifinalists for PodWheels’ Destinations podcast series. Those interviews will also serve as the basis for feature stories appearing on TheTrucker.com.

Coverage Will Include Key Transition Trucking Events

The press release states that PodWheels will travel to Columbus, Ohio, in September to cover events recognizing the semifinalists at the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, along with activities at Kenworth’s manufacturing facility in Chillicothe, where this year’s finalists will be announced.

The winner of the 2026 Transition Trucking: Driving For Excellence Award will receive a new Kenworth T680 during the program’s awards presentation in December.

Program Continues to Highlight Veterans Entering Trucking

For more than a decade, the Transition Trucking program has recognized military veterans beginning careers in the trucking industry. The annual selection process starts with nominations submitted by motor carriers and CDL training providers before being narrowed to the Elite 11 semifinalists, followed by a group of finalists announced later in the year.

In the press release, representatives from PodWheels, The Trucker Media Group, and FASTPORT said the expanded coverage is intended to bring greater visibility to the award program while sharing the personal stories of veteran drivers making the transition into the trucking industry.

Podcast episodes will be distributed through PodWheels.com and major podcast platforms, while related feature stories will appear on TheTrucker.com.

The TDUSA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering trucking news, industry updates, safety, regulations, and career information for professional truck drivers across the United States. Each article is built to reflect real-world experience, industry developments, and information drivers can use on and off the road.

Last Updated: August 3, 2026

Source: EIN Presswire

The post PodWheels and The Trucker Announce Coverage of Transition Trucking’s Driving for Excellence Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Greg Smith, a United States Air Force veteran and Schneider driver, was recently named the company’s latest Ride of Pride driver. He received the truck on May 23 and has already represented Schneider at an event in Washington, D.C.

The Ride of Pride program was launched by Daimler Truck North America in 2001 to recognize military service and sacrifice. Specially designed Freightliner Cascadia trucks are built as rolling tributes that travel across the country while honoring veterans and those connected to military service.

According to Schneider, the carrier has received 15 Ride of Pride trucks since the program began, more than any other trucking company.

Truck Honors Those Impacted by September 11

This year’s Ride of Pride truck serves as a tribute to those affected by the events of September 11, 2001.

The truck honors military members, civilians who lost their lives, surviving family members, firefighters, police officers, and others impacted by the attacks and the years that followed.

“In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would be selected to drive a Ride of Pride truck,” Smith said. “Schneider has been given a great responsibility to honor all those affected by September 11th, our military, the civilians who lost their lives that day, the surviving family members, firefighters, police officers, and our nation.”

Military Career Spanned More Than Two Decades

Before becoming a truck driver, Smith served more than 21 years in the Air Force.

His military career included several leadership positions, including service as a First Sergeant responsible for more than 500 airmen. Schneider said he also spent years supporting military honors programs, experiences that continued to influence him after leaving the service.

Smith joined Schneider in 2017. Today, he operates on a dedicated account and serves as a driver instructor.

Transition To Trucking Led Him to Schneider

Smith said the company’s focus on safety and integrity helped make his transition from military service to trucking easier.

“When I saw Schneider’s focus on safety and integrity, it felt familiar,” Smith said. “You’re surrounded by people who understand where you come from. You’re not just a number here, you belong.”

According to Schneider, military veterans remain a significant part of the company’s workforce, with 24% of associates having military experience.

Ride Of Pride Truck Will Appear at Events Nationwide

The truck will be featured at several events across the country, including Wreaths Across America activities, Fourth of July celebrations, and observances connected to the 25th anniversary of September 11.

Schneider said the truck will help connect with veterans, survivors, first responders, Gold Star families, and communities while continuing the Ride of Pride tradition established more than two decades ago.

The Truck Drivers USA editorial team creates practical, driver-focused content covering industry topics, job trends, and real-world decisions that impact drivers at every stage of their careers. Each article is written to provide clear, accurate information that drivers can use.

Last Updated: June 23, 2026

Source: The Trucker

image Source: Schneider

The post Air Force Veteran Selected as Schneider’s New Ride of Pride Driver appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Croke’s involvement began with a personal tribute. He placed a custom fifth wheel cover on his Peterbilt in honor of a close friend who served in the Vietnam War. What started as a quiet nod to a friend soon opened the door to a nationwide effort that brings the trucking industry together each year to honor fallen military service members.

“He’s my best friend in Australia, a trucker, and he always wanted to come to America and drive Peterbilts with me,” Croke said.

Originally from New South Wales, Australia, Croke now serves as a principal analyst for DAT Freight and Analytics. His professional path, however, started far from spreadsheets and market reports. He learned the trade behind the wheel, hauling freight for his family’s trucking company in Australia’s Outback.

That lifelong passion for driving never faded. His 2003 Peterbilt 379, known throughout the industry as “The Grumpy Pete,” regularly appears at major truck shows and industry events across the United States.

A Radio Interview That Changed Everything

Croke’s introduction to Wreaths Across America came unexpectedly during the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. While showcasing his truck, he joined Radio Nemo as a guest. During the same broadcast, Courtney George, director of transportation and industry relations for Wreaths Across America, explained the organization’s mission.

“As Courtney was explaining what the organization does, I thought, ‘What a wonderful concept — they put wreaths on the headstones of all of the fallen heroes at Arlington,’” Croke said.

The story behind the organization captured his attention. What began years ago when a wreathmaker placed 5,000 excess wreaths on military graves had grown into a massive national effort powered largely by volunteer truck drivers.

“So, with my Vietnam War connection friend from Australia represented on the back of my truck, I went to Arlington last year just to see what this was about,” he shared. “I watched all the trucks wrapped with pictures of fallen heroes — and then I saw all the fleet trucks wrapped in military colors and themes that were driven by veterans.”

For Croke, the experience revealed how deeply the mission resonates within the trucking community.

“It’s a very moving experience to be part of (the WAA mission). Some drivers spend a week’s vacation (participating) just to connect with all of their buddies,” he said, noting that many drivers involved are veterans themselves. “And even those who never served in the military have found a common bond through delivering the wreaths.”

Seeing the Mission at Its Starting Point

In 2025, Croke had the opportunity to witness Wreaths Across America from its origin point in Columbia Falls, Maine. There, wreaths are produced, organized, and dispatched to destinations across North America and beyond.

The scale of the operation left a lasting impression.

“I was just blown away by the scale of the operation — from the thousands of acres of balsam trees to the hundreds of workers … to the cook team that serves three meals a day in the driver’s lounge, and the dispatch process,” he said.

The setup, he explained, mirrors the logistics operations drivers know well.

“It’s like a combination of a truck stop and a truck terminal. They have everything there,” he said. “It was amazing to watch this process of trucks in and out: The trucks come in and drive around the building; then the drivers come in, sit down, have coffee and food.”

Despite the constant movement, nothing is left to chance. Pickup times are scheduled, loads are prepped, and trucks move through the facility from early morning until midnight until every wreath is on its way.

“I watched this Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (leading up to the truck convoy from Maine to Arlington), and it was this amazing process of trucks in and out,” he said. “It’s cold. It was down to 2 degrees one night.”

The Honor Fleet and the Communities Along the Way

Among the many drivers who volunteer to transport wreaths, being selected for the honor fleet traveling to Arlington National Cemetery carries special meaning.

As the convoy makes its way south, communities along the route gather to show their support. Schools, families, and veterans line the roads, often in freezing temperatures, waving flags and cheering as the trucks pass.

“To see each of the communities that get involved in this — that’s something I never really appreciated, (seeing) the schoolkids out in the cold, waiting for the trucks to pull in and waving their flags,” Croke said.

The shared purpose creates bonds that last well beyond the event.

“The best part is the connections I’ve been able to make with this network of truckers; it’s just a wonderful group of people,” he said. “I’ve become pretty good friends with a bunch of these guys. You could see how they become lifelong connections with this network of truckers.”

A Moment That Put Everything Into Perspective

One interaction during the 2025 event stood out above all others. While at the Wreaths Across America facility, Croke met a couple participating in the honor fleet in memory of their son, Staff Sergeant James C. Shepard. Shepard had served in the Marine Corps for more than ten years before taking his own life.

“In the driver’s lounge (at WAA), you can make your own wreaths,” Croke said. He watched as the parents personally assembled the wreath that would be placed on their son’s grave. “I don’t know if I can adequately put into words what something like that means.”

Closing the Mission at Arlington

Croke’s 2025 Wreaths Across America experience concluded on December 13, National Wreaths Across America Day, at Arlington National Cemetery. There, he served as a radio host as wreaths were placed in remembrance of fallen service members.

For truck drivers and industry leaders alike, his story highlights the role trucking plays beyond commerce. It is a reminder of how the industry can come together to move something far more meaningful than freight.

To learn more about Wreaths Across America or find out how to get involved, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Image Source: Dean Croke (left) captures a visit with Dave Nemo, host of RadioNemo.com, and Martin Garsee, director of transportation training at Houston Community College, during Wreaths Across America 2025. (Photo courtesy of Dean Croke)

The post A Trucker’s Path to Honoring Fallen Heroes Through Wreaths Across America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Celebrating Veteran Drivers

Organized by Kenworth, FASTPORT, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, this program aims to highlight America’s top rookie military veteran driver. For 10 years, Kenworth has supported the program by offering an impressive grand prize. This year, the winner will take home a Kenworth T680, complete with a 76-inch sleeper and the PACCAR Powertrain, featuring the PACCAR MX-13 engine, PACCAR TX-12 automated transmission, and PACCAR DX-40 tandem rear axles.

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for this prestigious award, nominees must meet the following criteria:

• Be a legal resident of the continental U.S. and a military veteran or current/former member of the National Guard or Reserves.
• Graduated from a PTDI-certified, NAPFTDS, or CVTA member driver training school with a valid CDL.
• Have been hired as a CDL driver by any for-hire carrier or private fleet committed to hiring veterans after January 1, 2024.

Key Dates

• Semi-Finalists Announcement: August 4
• Finalists’ Experience: Finalists will visit Columbus, Ohio, where they will tour the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, attend a reception, and visit the Kenworth Chillicothe manufacturing plant.
• Public Voting: November 1 to 11
• Winner Announcement: December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

The winner of this nationwide search will drive home in a fully equipped Kenworth T680.

To learn more about the full nomination criteria and access the nomination forms, visit the Transition Trucking Driving for Excellence website. Additional details are also available on the websites of FASTPORT and Hiring Our Heroes. Now is the perfect opportunity to honor a veteran trucker who exemplifies excellence!

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: Kenworth

The post Deadline Approaches for Transition Trucking Award Honoring Military Veterans appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Transition Trucking award, made possible through a collaboration between Fastport, Kenworth, and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes initiative, honors military veterans who have taken the important step of transitioning into careers within the trucking industry.

Brad Bentley, Fastport president, highlighted the significance of the program, stating, “The transportation industry not only embraces a veteran-ready ethos but actively integrates the invaluable skills and experiences our service members bring. We are thrilled to return to the Mid-America Trucking Show with this year’s Transition Trucking: Driving for Excellence grand prize – the Kenworth T680, a symbol of innovation and opportunity. Participating in the largest gathering of heavy-duty trucking professionals offers an unparalleled platform to honor our veterans and inspire new talent from the military community to join our ranks.”

Nominations Are Now Open

Nominations for this year’s Transition Trucking award are officially open. The deadline for submitting applications is set for June 20, providing nominators with several months to recognize exceptional veteran drivers who embody excellence in the industry.

Kyle Kimball, Kenworth’s director of marketing, expressed Kenworth’s dedication, saying, “Kenworth is honored to participate in this life-changing initiative for the tenth consecutive year, and we look forward to awarding our flagship T680 to a deserving military veteran at the end of this year.”

More Than Just the Grand Prize

While the spotlight shines on the T680 grand prize, finalists for the award will also receive significant rewards. Last year, the second-place finisher received $10,000, and the two other finalists each received $5,000.

Public Voting and Award Announcement

The public can play a role in November by voting for their favorite finalist. Afterward, a panel of judges will evaluate the candidates according to the official Transition Trucking award guidelines. The grand-prize winner will be revealed on December 12 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C.

Honoring Veterans in Transportation

“The transportation industry is a natural fit for veterans looking to continue a purpose-driven career that leverages the critical skill sets, specialized training, and leadership gained during military service – all highly coveted attributes that make them a strategic asset,” said Eric Eversole, vice president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and president of Hiring Our Heroes. “Hiring Our Heroes is proud to partner with Fastport and Kenworth for the tenth year to help service members successfully transition into the commercial trucking industry.”

Source: Land Line

The post Kenworth Celebrates a Decade of Donating Grand Prize for Transition Trucking Award appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Meaningful Mission for Military Veterans

For Schneider associates with military backgrounds, taking part in Wreaths Across America carries profound significance. Among this year’s participants is Patrice Cook, a U.S. Army veteran and one of Schneider’s esteemed Ride of Pride drivers. Cook had the honor of joining the prestigious Escort to Arlington, a convoy that began its east coast route on December 7 and concluded at Arlington National Cemetery on December 14 for Wreaths Across America Day.

“Each year, participating in this event is a profound honor,” Cook said. “Bringing wreaths to national cemeteries to honor those who have sacrificed their lives is deeply moving. Being part of the Escort to Arlington and witnessing the support and patriotism of onlookers along the route is incredibly heartwarming. At each stop, we meet people who share their stories and express their gratitude. It’s a reminder of the impact and importance of our mission, and it fills me with pride and humility to be part of such a meaningful tradition.”

A Responsibility to Give Back

Schneider has embedded the values of community responsibility and service in its operations. With 13% of its associates having military experience, the company provides meaningful opportunities for employees to give back. Since 2008, Schneider drivers have participated in WAA by delivering wreaths that commemorate the sacrifices of fallen service members. The company promotes active involvement in communities where its associates live and work, reflecting its core value of operating responsibly.

This year, the WAA theme, “Live with Purpose,” has resonated strongly with Schneider’s associates, who shared how this message inspires their work.

What “Live with Purpose” Means to Schneider Drivers

Patrice Cook stated, “‘Live with Purpose’ means making a positive impact on our future. As a Ride of Pride driver, I support my fellow veterans by attending events at care homes, hospitals, and other locations that offer support.”

Similarly, Jeff Waggoner, a U.S. Army veteran and Ride of Pride driver since 2022, noted, “To me, ‘Live with Purpose’ is about doing what you enjoy and finding fulfillment. Driving the Ride of Pride truck honors those who have served, and it’s rewarding to help other veterans. WAA isn’t just for veterans or drivers; anyone can contribute by volunteering, setting out wreaths, or donating.”

Bobby Brown, a U.S. Army veteran and Schneider employee for over 33 years, shared, “When I hear ‘Live with Purpose,’ I think of ‘Drive with Purpose’—what I do every day at Schneider. This route is especially important to me, having served in the Army and with many family members in the military. If there’s one load to do in a year, it’s this one.”

Doug Huber, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Schneider Van Truckload driver, added, “Remembrance is so important to honor fallen or missing veterans and also for all those who are currently serving in our military. I am proud to be part of WAA to do that. Additionally, ‘Live with Purpose’ means to me to reach out to those with a frown and brighten their day somehow, each and every day.”

Honoring and Remembering Through Action

Wreaths Across America began over 30 years ago and has grown into a year-long initiative focused on remembrance, honor, and teaching the values of freedom and sacrifice. Schneider has played an integral role in advancing this mission, consistently showcasing its dedication to operating responsibly and honoring those who served our country.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Schneider

The post Schneider Drivers Honor Veterans Through Wreaths Across America Participation appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The event saw participation from representatives of Kenworth, a division of CSM Companies, and J&R Schugel. To further acknowledge the service of military veterans, J&R Schugel adorned their new T680 with a unique wrap dedicated to DAV.

Courtney Antonsen, J&R Schugel’s human resources director, expressed: “It’s a privilege to collaborate with Disabled American Veterans in honoring those who have sacrificed so much for our freedom. Our uniquely wrapped Kenworth T680 truck will proudly journey across the country, symbolizing our appreciation and dedication to supporting veterans and their families. We also extend our gratitude to CSM Companies for their generous $25,000 donation, which will directly fund vital services for veterans.”

The Wisconsin Kenworth dealer presented an additional $25,000 check to DAV on behalf of J&R Schugel, reinforcing the company’s commitment to community and support for veterans.

Established in 1974 by founding members Jerry, Rich, and Harold Schugel, J&R Schugel has always operated with a customer, employee, and community-first philosophy. The company is known for wrapping their Kenworth trucks with themes to promote awareness for various causes, from supporting veterans to raising awareness about health issues like breast cancer, mental health, and autism.

Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing, praised J&R Schugel saying, “J&R Schugel has been a great customer for years, and we’re proud of all their efforts to partner with charity organizations and bring awareness to important causes throughout the country and in their local community.”

J&R Schugel runs over 700 trucks, the majority being the latest Kenworth T680 models with modern features designed for driver comfort. “All of our trucks are currently 2021 models or newer,” Antonsen noted. “The new interior features and technology, such as the digital display and sharper exterior design of the truck, are what stand out to our drivers. They spend most of their day in their trucks, and we believe providing them with new, premium equipment helps with overall job satisfaction.”

The company stays up-to-date with a three-year truck trade-in cycle, ensuring their equipment is top-notch and minimizes downtime for drivers. The latest Kenworth T680 model, introduced in 2021, continues to be a popular choice within their fleet.

Source: The Trucker

Image: J&R Schugel

The post Celebrating 50 Years at J&R Schugel with a Special Tribute to Disabled American Veterans appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Finding a Home at NFI

Amy M.’s experience at NFI, especially in the finance department, has been profoundly enriched by the company’s respect and tribute to U.S. armed forces veterans.

“I was born in Arizona, but I would say I’m from New Jersey,” she shared with The Trucker. “I’ve lived all over everywhere from Arizona to Florida to Tennessee to Indiana. I was a military brat, since my dad was in the Army.”

Amy’s connection to the military runs deep, with relatives serving in the Navy and her grandfather and husband in the Air Force.

“There was a lot of moving. Our first seven years of marriage, we moved 13 times,” she mentioned. “Once he received his honorable discharge from the military, we settled down.”

Despite being unable to serve due to health reasons, Amy charted a different course that began with a childhood fascination for mechanics.

“I worked as a mechanic as a kid, and I worked for a fleet management company for years,” she explained.

Her path led her to NFI five years ago, where she shifted from mechanics to compliance, and then into finance.

Supporting Veterans through Engagement

“At NFI, my passion for helping veterans led me to help create the Veteran Advisory Council, which evolved into the Veteran Engagement Team, or VET,” Amy said.

This team serves as a dedicated resource for veterans, featuring a portal with transportation apprenticeships and special observance days for veterans.

The initiative organizes events year-round and offers a veteran resource page with valuable information on mental health, relationships, financial management, and more.

“We’ve also developed cards with inscribed messages and QR codes linking directly to our resource page,” Amy noted. “Veterans can have instant access to these resources anytime.”

Ongoing Veteran Support Initiatives

NFI also conducts an annual donation drive, a part of their comprehensive support for veterans dealing with various challenges, including PTSD and financial management.

“We’re there for them, regardless of when they served,” Amy commented.

NFI colleague and Marine Corps veteran Dustin S. shares Amy’s gratitude. “NFI’s veterans initiatives hit especially close to home for me,” he said.

“My stepson is currently active-duty Navy in Groton, Connecticut, and my other stepson is stationed in Jordan with the Air Force,” Dustin disclosed.

The 2023 donation drive saw nearly 100 gifts purchased via Amazon. Already in 2024, contributions have soared to 140 since launch. For participation details, click here.

Recognizing Sacrifice and Service

The emphasis NFI places on valuing both its employees and military service reflects a genuine walk, not just talk, regarding commitments.

“When I decided to make a career change, valuing employee and community support was crucial,” Amy mentioned. Partnering with Hiring Our Heroes and the Department of Defense Skillbridge program, NFI continues to explore opportunities benefiting veterans.

“It’s the least we can do for the sacrifices they’ve made,” Amy asserted.

“Veterans are why we can sleep soundly,” Dustin stated. “It’s vital to show our appreciation for their decision to defend our nation.”

Source: The Trucker

Image: NFI

The post Supporting Veterans Transitioning to Civilian Life with NFI Industries appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation’s Hiring Our Heroes program, alongside Kenworth Truck Company and Fastport, this award shines a spotlight on the unique skills and dedication veterans bring to the field. Voting is open until Veterans Day, Nov. 11, giving you a chance to support your top choice among these dedicated rookie military drivers.

According to a recent announcement, the selection process includes a rigorous nomination, thorough review by a panel, and a public voting phase to identify America’s standout rookie veteran driver. The winner will be revealed at a special ceremony on Dec. 13 at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C. This year’s grand prize is the cutting-edge Kenworth T680 with a 76-inch sleeper, PACCAR Powertrain, and premium components. The runner-up receives $10,000, and the remaining finalists each earn $5,000.

You can cast your vote on the Transition Trucking website (https://transitiontrucking.org/vote/), where you’ll find videos introducing each finalist. Your vote plays a significant role in helping the selection committee choose this year’s award recipient.

Meet the 2024 Finalists:

• Douglas Couch, U.S. Navy (E-5), Roehl Transport, Inc.
  Douglas served aboard the USS Nimitz CVN 68 as a Culinary Specialist 2nd Class from 2012-2016, overseeing a team that fed over 5,000 personnel. Since switching to trucking, he has driven more than 150,000 miles with an unwavering commitment to safety.
• Shawn Haley, U.S. Marine Corps (E-4), Veriha Trucking LLC
  Serving from 1987 to 1991, Shawn provided security for Presidents Reagan and Bush. After running a successful business for two decades, he took on the challenge of becoming a regional truck driver, enjoying the sights of the country.
• Billy Taylor, U.S. Coast Guard (E-7), Werner Enterprises
  From Port Security to drug interdiction, Billy’s 20-year Coast Guard career was diverse. Since retiring, he drives for Werner Enterprises, contributing to the Anheuser-Busch account in Ohio, bringing the same dedication to his new role.
• Cory Troxell, U.S. Army (E-7), Stevens Transport
  Born into a legacy of military service, Cory joined the Army in 2004. Despite being severely injured in 2009, he continued to serve until his retirement in 2024. Following his family’s path, he now excels as a truck driver.

For more information, visit https://transitiontrucking.org/. Celebrate these outstanding veterans by casting your vote and supporting their journeys in the trucking industry.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Transition Trucking

The post Celebrate Veterans in Trucking: Cast Your Vote for the 2024 Transition Trucking Award Winner appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.