The Alabama Trucking Association teamed up with Alabama-based band Heroes of the Highway for the second year in a row to release an original song honoring the nation’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers. “Get Miles” debuted earlier this week as part of this year’s NTDAW celebration.

“Get Miles” Continues the Story from Last Year

The new release follows “Highway Dreaming,” which the same partnership released during last year’s appreciation week. Instead of beginning with a new story, “Get Miles” returns to the driver introduced in the first song and moves his journey forward.

The character who was just getting started in “Highway Dreaming” is now a seasoned professional who has settled into life on the road and continues putting in the miles.

The sound has changed along with the story. The Alabama Trucking Association described the new track as leaning toward early-2000s post-grunge, with driving guitars, soaring vocals, and drums giving the second release a heavier sound.

Heroes of the Highway Returned for the Second Release

Will Stewart handles lead vocals and guitar, while Les Nuby plays lead guitar, bass, and drums, and Ford Boswell provides backing vocals. Stewart and Boswell co-wrote the song, with Nuby also handling engineering and mixing.

The project also connects strongly to Alabama’s trucking community. According to the Alabama Trucking Association, approximately 34,000 trucking companies operate in the state, and the industry employs 125,000 Alabamians, representing about one in every 13 jobs.

The Tribute Arrives During NTDAW

“Get Miles” was released as the trucking industry marked National Truck Driver Appreciation Week from September 13–19. With this year’s celebration nearing its end, the song gives listeners another way to recognize the professionals who keep freight moving across the country.

The Alabama Trucking Association has represented the state’s trucking industry since 1938 through advocacy, training, and industry programs. The organization said its efforts to support professional drivers continue throughout the year beyond the annual appreciation week.

“Get Miles” is now available on streaming platforms.

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: September 18, 2026

Source: Yellow Hammer News

The post Heroes of the Highway Releases New Song Celebrating America’s Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The company brought nearly 100 owner-operators, fleet drivers, and trucking personalities into its Shell Rotella Recording Studio during MATS to talk about their careers, memorable experiences, and what makes them proud to work in trucking. Those conversations were compiled into a video that premiered September 13 and is being shared during NTDAW.

Stories Recorded at MATS Raised Money for SCF

The project also generated more than $2,000 for the St. Christopher Truckers Relief Fund, which assists over-the-road and regional truck drivers and their families when illness or injury creates financial hardship.

Shell Rotella pledged $25 to SCF for each video recorded at MATS. With nearly 100 people participating, the recordings served two purposes: allowing truckers to share their experiences while raising money for others in the industry.

Shell Rotella Brand Manager Julie Wright said the recording studio gave participants a chance to explain what trucking means to them in their own words while supporting SCF’s work.

More Driver Stories Are Coming

The Boston Trucker, Clarissa Rankin and Tarik Al-Amin were among the trucking personalities involved in the recording sessions, encouraging participants to reflect on their careers and experiences behind the wheel.

Although the main video debuted for NTDAW, Shell Rotella plans to continue sharing conversations from the project throughout the year.

Drivers can find the video and additional stories through Shell Rotella and the brand’s social media channels.

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: September 17, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post Shell Rotella Puts Truck Drivers’ Stories in the Spotlight During NTDAW appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Some promotions are limited to NTDAW, which runs September 13-19, while others continue through the end of the month. Available offers range from free food and bonus rewards to discounted DEF and a custom Kenworth giveaway.

Here is what drivers can still take advantage of this September.

OOIDA Drops Membership to $25

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association is offering new and renewing members a one-year membership for $25 through September 30, down from its regular $45 rate.

Drivers can receive the discounted rate by calling OOIDA at 816-229-5791 or signing up online with promo code FIGHT25.

OOIDA also brought its Spirit of the American Trucker tour truck to Truck World in Hubbard, Ohio, September 9-11, where the association sponsored complimentary lunches for professional drivers during the three-day stop.

Pilot Puts a Custom Kenworth and $50,000 Up for Grabs

Pilot’s annual Road Warrior contest is back with a considerably larger prize for this year’s winner. One professional driver will receive a Kenworth W990 customized by the Diesel Brothers along with $50,000 in cash.

Nominations remain open through September 18 for drivers recognized for professionalism, safety, and service, with the winner scheduled to be announced in October.

Pilot is also offering professional drivers three free drinks and a snack each week throughout September through its app at participating U.S. Pilot, Flying J and One9 locations. Select travel centers are hosting additional events with giveaways, samples, and other freebies.

Love’s Rolls Out Weekly Deals and Extra Points

Professional drivers using the Love’s Rewards App can earn double points on in-store purchases and triple points on drink refills throughout September.

During NTDAW, drivers can take advantage of several additional offers, including a Drummies and egg cup deal from September 14-20, buy two, get one free Old Wisconsin Meat Snacks through September 19, and two Subway footlongs for $13.99 through September 19.

A free Little Debbie single-serve item is also available September 16, while buy-one-get-one tacos are scheduled for September 21-27.

TA Gives Drivers More Ways to Enter September Sweepstakes

TravelCenters of America is running its Every Driver Counts Sweepstakes throughout September, with entries tied to qualifying purchases made with an EarnifyPro account.

A single fill of at least 60 gallons of commercial diesel earns an entry, as does purchasing a Rapid, Premium, or Ultimate Oil Change or placing a work order of at least $500 at a TA Truck Service Center.

Sixteen prizes are available. Two grand-prize winners will each receive 50,000 EarnifyPro points, valued at $500, while the remaining prizes include TA and RFK Racing die-cast collectibles.

Sheetz Cuts Bulk DEF to $1.99 a Gallon

Sheetz has lowered bulk DEF to $1.99 per gallon through September 30 at 55 locations across its seven-state footprint that offer bulk DEF at the truck diesel dispensers.

Additional promotions are available at locations with high-flow truck diesel. Drivers can receive a free commercial diesel hat while supplies last, and customers purchasing high-flow diesel can get a free half-size sub.

Pumping 100 gallons of high-flow diesel also qualifies customers for one free eligible made-to-order item or beverage. That offer continues through October 27 and is limited to one redemption per day. The additional offers require a My Sheetz Rewards membership.

RaceTrac Adds Weekly Food and Drink Freebies

RaceTrac is giving professional drivers several recurring offers through September 30 through its Rewards program and app.

Each week, eligible drivers can receive one free pizza slice, one free fountain drink, and one free 16-ounce Reign, Bang, NOS, or Full Throttle energy drink. Members can also earn double loyalty points on fuel throughout the promotion.

C.H. Robinson Marks NTDAW With Carrier Recognition

C.H. Robinson is recognizing drivers and carriers during NTDAW under its “Built to Move” campaign. Employees at locations around the country assembled carrier swag bags with handwritten thank-you notes and items for the road, which are being distributed to drivers at C.H. Robinson facilities during the week.

The company will also recognize 17 Carrier of the Year winners at a September 17 ceremony in Minneapolis. Recipients range from one-truck owner-operators to fleets operating hundreds of trucks.

More Than One Week of Driver Deals

While several offers coincide directly with NTDAW, many continue well beyond September 19. OOIDA’s membership discount, Pilot’s weekly app offers, TA’s sweepstakes, Sheetz’s bulk DEF price, and RaceTrac’s driver promotions all remain available later in the month.

Requirements vary by promotion, with some offers tied to rewards accounts, apps, participating locations, or qualifying purchases. Checking those details before stopping can help drivers make sure an offer is available where they plan to redeem it.

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: September 14, 2026

Source: Overdrive

The post Truck Driver Appreciation Deals, Giveaways and Events Available This September appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

That is worth considering before plans are finalized. Instead of assuming which gifts or events drivers will appreciate most, carriers still have time to ask and make sure the celebration includes drivers who will not be there in person.

Send a Short Driver Survey

A survey sent before the week begins can give drivers a direct say in what they would like to receive. Keep it short enough to complete from a phone and limit the choices to options the company can realistically provide.

Carriers could ask drivers to rank a meal or truck stop gift card, company gear, practical items for the truck, or other giveaways already under consideration. If a raffle is planned, another question could ask whether drivers would rather have a chance at a larger prize or receive a smaller gift guaranteed to everyone.

Include one open-response question at the end asking what would make the week more meaningful to them. That gives drivers room to suggest something that may not have been included in the choices and can also give carriers ideas for future celebrations.

Include Drivers Who Will Be OTR

A terminal cookout can still be part of the week, but it should not be the only way drivers are recognized. Before September 13, carriers can determine which drivers are unlikely to return to a terminal and decide what they will receive instead.

If drivers at the terminal are getting lunch, those on the road could receive a digital meal or truck stop gift card. If giveaways are being handed out in person, items for OTR drivers can be set aside before distribution begins and held until they return.

Carriers with multiple terminals can take the same approach across locations. Drivers based at a smaller facility or passing through another terminal should know where their gift is available rather than having to track it down after the week is over.

Make Raffles Available to the Entire Fleet

Raffles can easily include drivers on the road as long as being physically present is not required to win. Entering every eligible driver automatically allows OTR, night, and weekend drivers to participate alongside those attending the terminal event.

Winners can be contacted directly and prizes held or shipped if necessary. If drawings are planned throughout the week, the same fleet-wide entry list can be used rather than limiting each drawing to whoever happens to be at the terminal that day.

The survey can also help determine whether a raffle is something drivers actually want. If most drivers would rather receive a smaller guaranteed item than have a chance at one of a few larger prizes, carriers still have time to use that information.

Think About the Timing of Terminal Events

The week lasts seven days, but appreciation activities are often concentrated around a single meal or event. Spreading activities across different days and shifts gives more local and regional drivers a chance to participate without requiring a change to their work schedule.

Night and weekend drivers should be part of that planning as well. If food, gifts, or other activities are only available during weekday office hours, another portion of the fleet can end up missing the same celebration that OTR drivers do.

For companies holding several events, sharing the full schedule with drivers ahead of time can also help those who expect to pass through a terminal during the week know when something is happening.

Find Out What Worked

A short follow-up survey after September 19 can answer questions that are difficult to judge from event attendance alone. Ask drivers whether they received their gift, were able to participate in any company activities, and what they would keep or change next year.

The responses can be especially useful when planning for drivers who spend most of their time away from a terminal. If an on-the-road option was well received, it can become part of next year’s plan from the beginning rather than being added as an alternative later.

There is no single meal, gift, or event that will be the first choice of every driver. Asking drivers what they would like before the week begins and making sure those choices reach people on the road gives carriers a better chance of making the recognition count wherever their drivers happen to be.

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: September 3, 2026

The post What Do Drivers Actually Want for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week? appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

As part of the project, Elevate participants will assemble 250 driver appreciation backpack kits during the TCA Fall Business Meetings on Sept. 1. The backpacks will be filled with practical items and snacks before being distributed to professional drivers at truck stops throughout Maryland, Virginia and the Washington, D.C., region.

The initiative is designed to thank drivers for their contributions to the trucking industry while giving TCA members an opportunity to participate in a hands-on appreciation event.

Members Invited to Donate Backpack Items

To help stock the backpacks, TCA has created an Amazon wish list featuring everyday essentials and comfort items that will be included in the kits.

Association members who are unable to attend the Fall Business Meetings can still participate by purchasing items through the wish list and having them shipped directly to TCA before the event.

The association is also accepting donations of items not included on the wish list. Members interested in contributing alternative products are encouraged to coordinate donations through TCA Senior Membership Engagement Manager Erica Bledsoe.

Recognizing Drivers During Appreciation Week

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, observed this year from Sept. 13-19, recognizes the millions of professional truck drivers who transport freight throughout the United States. Many carriers, industry organizations and trucking companies hold appreciation events, meals and recognition programs during the week to acknowledge drivers’ contributions to the nation’s supply chain.

TCA said the Elevate project is intended to bring that appreciation directly to drivers by personally delivering the backpack kits at fuel stops across the Mid-Atlantic region.

The Truckload Carriers Association’s Elevate Young Leadership Program develops emerging leaders within the truckload industry through networking, education, and leadership development opportunities.

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 25, 2026

Source: The Trucker

The post TCA Elevate Program Launches Driver Appreciation Initiative Ahead of National Truck Driver Appreciation Week appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The company noted that these drivers have demonstrated “industry-leading safety records, exceptional skills and consistency throughout their careers.”

Drivers recognized for their achievements include:

Three Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Daniel Ronca
• Todd Miller

Two Million Miles of Safe Driving

• Richard Burkhart
• Richard Hunt
• Dennis Desrosiers
• John Basile
• William Jones
• Richard Wright
• Paul Waite Jr.

One Million Miles of Safe Driving

• David Adams
• Samuel Kinyanjui
• Gerardo Lopez III
• Walter Baumert
• Keith Carknard
• Charles Krumm
• Juan Ramos
• Robert Kaduck
• Joshua Cartier
• James Mooney
• John Davis
• Michael Oktavec
• Anthony Bowen
• Francis Hess
• John Arnold
• Michael Boyer
• William Ort
• Brian Eslinger

Source: A. Duie Pyle
Source: Truckers News

The post A. Duie Pyle Honors Million-Mile Safe Drivers During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

ATA President and CEO Chris Spear emphasized just how much the country relies on professional drivers:

“When every convenience and necessity is available on a store shelf or just a click away, it can be easy to overlook America’s 3.6 million truck drivers who pull off this logistical feat day after day. Our reliance on truckers is absolute, and our appreciation for them should be as well. National Truck Driver Appreciation Week provides the opportunity for Americans to give them the gratitude they richly deserve. We applaud Senators Boozman and Kelly for leading the bipartisan effort to recognize the extraordinary hard work, dedication, and sacrifice of America’s professional drivers.”

The resolution was introduced by Senators John Boozman (R-AR) and Mark Kelly (D-AZ), who both underscored the vital role truck drivers play in everyday life.

Sen. Boozman called drivers both essential and a point of pride for his state:

“Truck drivers are the backbone of our economy and a source of pride for our state. These men and women spend long hours away from their families to deliver the goods that keep our communities moving. Trucking touches most facets of modern life, and I am proud to lead the Senate in showing professional truck drivers gratitude and respect.”

Sen. Kelly echoed that sentiment, pointing to the daily impact of drivers in Arizona and beyond:

“Arizona’s truck drivers are the reason our grocery shelves stay stocked, our hospitals get critical supplies, and our businesses reach their customers. They put in long hours on the road, away from their families, to keep our economy moving. I’m proud to join Senator Boozman in recognizing the hard work and sacrifice of these men and women during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.”

The Senate’s bipartisan resolution highlights the importance of America’s 3.6 million professional truck drivers and the sacrifices they make to keep goods moving across the nation.

Source: The Trucker

The post Senate Backs National Truck Driver Appreciation Week Resolution appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“This song is more than just music — it’s a tribute to the hardworking men and women who deliver for their families, communities, and the nation every day,” said Josh Vaughn, Alabama Trucking Association (ATA) director of advocacy and marketing. “The entire song and accompanying video were written, performed, and recorded right here in Alabama by Alabama musicians and artists.”

Born from an Idea at ATA’s Annual Convention

The project began during ATA’s annual convention last May, where Alabama’s Sweet Tea Trio — Kate Falcon, Taylor Morrison, and Savannah Sawyer — performed a moving a cappella rendition of the national anthem. Their harmonies left the room captivated, sparking Vaughn’s idea to create a musical tribute for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week.

Soon after, Vaughn teamed up with Alabama musicians under the banner Heroes of the Highway, and with the help of Birmingham songwriter Will Stewart, “Highway Dreaming” was recorded at the historic Cypress Moon Studios in Sheffield.

A Song Written for the Road

The anthem captures the resilience, pride, and unshakable spirit of truck drivers. With lyrics such as “turning miles right into money,” it reflects both the challenges and the purpose that come with life behind the wheel.

The accompanying music video, directed by Vaughn, blends studio moments with real-life trucking families. Blair Logistics driver Jeremy Johnson and his family, along with ATA President Mark Colson’s daughter, Liv, are featured, giving the video an authenticity that resonates beyond the music.

Sweet Tea Trio’s Signature Sound

Sweet Tea Trio’s harmonies have taken them to stages with icons like Bon Jovi, Alabama, and Kid Rock. In “Highway Dreaming,” their sound anchors the song, giving it both emotional depth and a sense of pride rooted in their Alabama heritage.

Where to Listen

Fans can stream Highway Dreaming on Spotify, Apple Music, and other major platforms. The music video is available at HighwayDreaming.com and on the Sweet Tea Trio’s official YouTube channel.

By blending storytelling, powerful vocals, and the everyday grit of trucking families, “Highway Dreaming” stands as a heartfelt tribute to the unsung heroes of America’s highways.

Source: The Trucker

The post Highway Dreaming Honors Truck Drivers with a Soulful Tribute appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

A Membership Built for Drivers

To show appreciation, WIT is giving drivers 50% off all Driver Memberships with the code DRIVER2025. Whether you are joining for the first time or renewing, this limited-time offer makes now the perfect moment to get involved.

Membership with Women In Trucking is not just about discounts or perks; it is about connection. Drivers become part of a supportive network that uplifts women and allies across the industry, providing resources, mentorship, and community when it is needed most.

How to Join

Drivers can take advantage of this offer before National Truck Driver Appreciation Week comes to an end by signing up through the Women In Trucking website. Enter DRIVER2025 at checkout to receive 50% off your Driver Membership.

Source: Women In Trucking

Image Source: Star Arandale (Unsplash)

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Turning Appreciation into Action

Earlier this year at the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS), Shell Rotella invited attendees to record messages of gratitude in its “Thank-a-Trucker” studio. For each message shared, both Shell Rotella and Love’s pledged $20 to SCF — an organization dedicated to helping truckers facing unexpected financial or medical challenges.

In total, 72 heartfelt recordings were made, adding up to a combined $2,880 donation to SCF. Shell emphasized the power of turning appreciation into action: “Seventy-two voices of gratitude echoed through MATS, each one a heartfelt ‘thank you’ that turned words into action. In total, these messages generated a $2,880 donation made in honor of the hardworking people who keep the country moving.”

Spotlighting the People Behind the Wheel

The donation is being presented this week during NTDAW, along with a virtual check presentation video rolling out on social media. The video will feature thank-you messages from Shell Rotella and Love’s representatives, paired with the unveiling of the donation check, creating a shareable way to recognize truck drivers nationwide.

Julie Wright, North American brand manager for Shell Rotella, underscored the importance of the effort: “Truckers are the unsung heroes of the highway, and their sacrifices and commitment deserve our deepest gratitude. We are honored to shine a spotlight through this shared tribute to every mile, every sacrifice, and every story worth celebrating through our continuing support of SCF.”

A Gift That Makes an Impact

For drivers, this support can make a real difference. Diane Hutsell, director of philanthropy at SCF, explained: “Every donation, every thank-you message, makes a difference. Shell Rotella and Love’s Travel Stops continue to show up for drivers in a meaningful way, and this gift will help us continue our mission to support truckers in need.”

Amplifying Voices Across the Industry

To reach even more drivers, Shell Rotella partnered with trucking influencers Clarissa Rankin (@iamclarissarankin) and Tarik Al-Amin II (@tarik_alaminii). Their platforms helped amplify the project, encouraging drivers to share personal experiences and stories of gratitude that reflect the strength and heart of the trucking community.

Courtney Franklin, manager of community relations at Love’s Travel Stops, noted how the partnership reflects shared values: “It’s an honor to align with Shell Rotella in sharing a sincere thank you to the people who drive the transportation industry and economy. This partnership reflects our shared respect for drivers and our commitment to their health and success.”

Wrapping Up NTDAW with Thanks

As NTDAW comes to a close on Sept. 20, the donation and tribute video serve as reminders that appreciation for drivers shouldn’t stop once the week ends. With millions of miles traveled and countless sacrifices made, this initiative highlights the dedication of professional truckers and the importance of recognizing their role in keeping America moving.

To see the “Thank-a-Trucker” tribute video and virtual donation presentation, visit Shell Rotella’s official pages on Facebook, Instagram, and X.

Source: Shell

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