Air Force Veteran Selected as Schneider’s New Ride of Pride Driver

Air Force veteran Greg Smith has been named Schneider's newest Ride of Pride driver and will operate a truck honoring those affected by September 11, 2001.

A Schneider driver with more than two decades of military service has been selected to operate the carrier’s newest Ride of Pride truck.

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.