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.

The convoy will depart from Columbia Falls, Maine, on Saturday, December 6, making its way down the East Coast toward Arlington National Cemetery, where volunteers will lay wreaths on the graves of fallen heroes on December 13, National Wreaths Across America Day.

A Convoy With a Purpose

Truckers know the road has meaning. For this convoy, each stop along the way serves as a moment of remembrance. The official route includes stops at schools, memorials, and community events across Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. At each one, the message is the same: Remember the fallen, honor those who serve, and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

Drivers and the public can follow the journey all week long by tuning in to Wreaths Across America Radio for live updates and coverage from the road.

Special Trucks, Special Cargo

For the 11th year in a row, Chevrolet is providing ten wrapped escort vehicles, including the all-electric Silverado EV, to carry Gold Star and Blue Star families and veterans throughout the week. Chevrolet has also sponsored 4,000 veterans’ wreaths for placement at Arlington National Cemetery.

“Chevrolet and its dealers are honored to support Wreaths Across America’s mission to remember, honor, and teach,” said Dan Adamcheck, regional director of sales, service and marketing, Chevrolet. “It’s a privilege to give back to our communities and honor the brave men and women who have served our country.”

Carriers Hauling With Heart

Truckers play a central role in making this mission happen. This year’s convoy includes 13 tractor-trailers representing:

• American Trucking Associations – Workforce Heroes
• Cari’s Blessing
• Bennett Motor Express LLC
• Brown Dog Carriers
• Cargo Transporters Inc.
• Delhaize Transportation LLC (DBA Hannaford Supermarkets)
• H.O. Wolding, Inc. (DBA Bison Transport USA)
• Interstate Van Lines
• Merchants Distributors Inc. (MDI)
• NFI
• Schneider National
• Sherwin-Williams Company
• Witte Bros. Exchange Inc.

Load One Carriers will again serve as the ceremonial wreath transporter, delivering thousands of sponsored wreaths to Arlington for placement by volunteers. These drivers are carrying more than wreaths. They are hauling a nation’s gratitude.

A Small Start, A Massive Impact

What began 33 years ago with one truck and one man’s simple act of thanks has grown into a national movement that reaches every corner of the country. More than 5,500 locations will host ceremonies this year, each one guided by the mission to remember, honor, and teach.

To find a location near you or volunteer, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

How Truckers Can Get Involved

Whether you volunteer, sponsor a wreath, or help spread the word, your support keeps this tribute alive. Each $17 sponsorship helps place a wreath for an American hero this December and brings truckers, families, and veterans together on the road for something bigger than all of us.

Image Source: WAA

Other Source: The Trucker

The post Wreaths Across America Announces 2025 Escort to Arlington Route appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Delivering Wreaths and Scholarships

TCA’s goal for 2025 is to fill an entire trailer with approximately 5,000 sponsored wreaths that will be delivered to participating cemeteries in December. Each wreath sponsorship is $17, and when purchased through TCA’s dedicated link, $5 goes directly to the TCA Scholarship Fund, helping students with ties to the truckload industry.

By taking part, supporters are both remembering a veteran and contributing to the future of the trucking community. Details on sponsoring wreaths are available at truckload.org/wreaths-across-america. Those interested in assisting with wreath deliveries can visit wreathsacrossamerica.org/getinvolved/supporttransportation.

Recognizing Professional Drivers

The night before the wreath-laying at Arlington National Cemetery, TCA and Pilot Flying J will host the annual Wreaths Across America Arlington Driver Appreciation Dinner. This year’s gathering is set for Friday, December 12. More than 75 professional drivers and guests will receive a meal and a token of appreciation for their contributions.

“Keep Moving Forward” – The 2025 Theme

Wreaths Across America has chosen “Keep Moving Forward” as its theme for 2025. The words came from Captain Joshua Byers, U.S. Army, moments after an IED struck his Humvee in Fallujah, Iraq, on July 23, 2003.

As Company Commander of Fox Troop in the 2/3 Armored Cavalry Regiment, Byers’ final command to his driver — “Keep moving forward” — saved lives, even though he did not survive. His family and fellow soldiers carried those words as a lasting call to persevere.

“There will always be challenges to overcome as individuals, communities, and a country, but we must keep moving forward together,” said Karen Worcester, executive director of WAA. “This year, we will share not only the Byers’ story of resilience but also the stories of many others who continue to live with purpose every day and have chosen to keep moving forward.”

The Meaning Behind Each Wreath

WAA explains that every wreath placed in honor of a veteran is made from 10 balsam bouquets, each representing qualities America’s veterans embody:

• Belief in a greater good
• Love for one another
• Strength, work ethic, and character
• Honesty and integrity
• Humility, selflessness, and modesty
• Ambitions and aspirations
• Optimism for America
• Concern for the future
• Pride in their duties
• Hopes and dreams, fulfilled or not, with no regrets

Symbolism is woven into every part of the wreath: evergreen boughs for endurance, the fresh scent of balsam for purity and simplicity, a red bow for sacrifice, and its circular shape for eternity.

Image Source: Wreaths Across America
Source: The Trucker

The post Honoring Heroes: TCA’s Ongoing Support for Wreaths Across America appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

The Honor Fleet is crucial in transporting millions of veterans’ wreaths nationwide every year. These wreaths are delivered to over 4,900 locations, including the revered Arlington National Cemetery. In 2024 alone, an impressive 739 loads of wreaths were transported by 397 trucking companies, exemplifying the scale and impact of their contribution.

Trucking Partners Driving a Noble Mission

Transportation partners are the backbone of WAA’s annual wreath-laying ceremonies. According to WAA, the honorees are recognized for their unwavering dedication, generosity, and relentless commitment to honoring veterans and their families.

This year’s honorees include:

• Abilene Motor Express
• Jetco Delivery
• Hirschbach Motor Lines
• Boyd Grain Inc.
• Big G Express
• Knight Transportation
• Classic Carriers
• Leonard’s Express
• Hoekstra Transportation, LLC
• Convoy Systems LLC
• Paul MH Sagehorn LLC
• Hampton Roads Moving & Storage
• Total Transportation of Mississippi
• Heartland Express
• Waste Masters Solutions
• B. Hunt
• Matrix Expedited Service

Recognizing a Meaningful Contribution

“Many of our partners donating their time each year are veterans themselves, including the professional drivers hauling the loads,” shared Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for Wreaths Across America. “Professional drivers and carriers that join WAA’s Honor Fleet have the desire to do something meaningful to honor veterans and their loved ones, and many say that Wreaths Across America provides a way for them to do that.”

WAA’s mission is a testament to the impact that the transportation industry can have in bringing communities together, demonstrating the deep gratitude and respect owed to our nation’s veterans. These partnerships are not only meaningful efforts to honor veterans but also a source of pride for the carriers involved.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: TAPinto

The post Wreaths Across America Recognizes Honor Fleet Partners for Dedication and Service appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Every year, these carriers play a pivotal role in transporting wreaths to honor American veterans. Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for WAA, stated, “Many of our partners donating their time each year are veterans themselves, including the professional drivers hauling the loads. Professional drivers and carriers that join WAA’s Honor Fleet have the desire to do something meaningful to honor veterans and their loved ones and many say that Wreaths Across America provides a way for them to do that.”

The Role of the Honor Fleet

The Honor Fleet serves as the backbone of Wreaths Across America’s mission, delivering millions of beautifully crafted veterans’ wreaths to locations nationwide. Reflecting on 2024, the fleet hauled 739 loads of wreaths using support from 397 trucking companies to reach more than 4,900 participating destinations, including the esteemed Arlington National Cemetery.

By partnering with the Honor Fleet, trucking companies demonstrate unwavering dedication to giving back to the nation and honoring those who have served.

Celebrating This Year’s Honorees

To celebrate their significant contributions, WAA honors the following 17 carriers for their generosity, commitment, and tireless efforts in supporting veterans and their families over the years:

• Abilene Motor Express

• Jetco Delivery

• Hirschbach Motor Lines

• Boyd Grain Inc.

• Big G Express

• Knight Transportation

• Classic Carriers

• Leonard’s Express

• Hoekstra Transportation, LLC

• Convoy Systems LLC

• Paul MH Sagehorn LLC

• Hampton Roads Moving & Storage

• Total Transportation of Mississippi

• Heartland Express

• Waste Masters Solutions

• J.B. Hunt

• Matrix Expedited Service

By dedicating their resources to WAA’s annual wreath-laying mission, these companies demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to remembering and honoring American veterans and their loved ones.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Wreaths Across America

The post Wreaths Across America Honors 17 Carriers for a Decade of Service 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 convoy will conclude its weeklong journey at Arlington National Cemetery on Saturday, December 14, 2024, coinciding with National Wreaths Across America Day, a day dedicated to honoring veterans and their sacrifices.

Public Stops Along the Way

The official route, which is accessible here, features several public events taking place in states including Maine, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Maryland, and Washington, D.C. These stops provide community members the chance to observe the convoy and participate in this important commemoration.

Participating Trucking Companies

The Escort to Arlington has grown considerably, featuring 14 tractor-trailers this year, operated by leading trucking companies, including:

• Baylor Trucking

• Budd Van Lines

• Saia LTL

• Schneider National

• Witte Bros. Exchange, Inc.

• Page ETC Transportation

• Delhaize Transportation LLC (operating as Hannaford Supermarkets)

• American Trucking Associations – Workforce Heroes

• Cargo Transporters, Inc.

• Prime Inc.

• Brown Dog Carriers

• Walmart Transportation

• Interstate Van Lines

• H.O. Wolding, Inc. (operating as Bison Transport USA)

Load One Carriers will continue its pivotal role as the ceremonial wreath transporter throughout the weeklong event.

These organizations each carry a portion of the sponsored veterans’ wreaths that thousands of volunteers will later place at Arlington National Cemetery, commemorating the service and sacrifice of the nation’s veterans.

Chevrolet Supports the Mission

For the 10th consecutive year, Chevrolet has generously provided 12 escort vehicles, including the all-electric Silverado EV RST, to transport Gold Star and Blue Star family members as well as veterans accompanying the convoy throughout the week. Chevrolet has also sponsored 4,000 veterans’ wreaths for placement at Arlington.

Expanding Participation Nationwide

While Arlington National Cemetery is a focal point, National Wreaths Across America Day is celebrated at more than 4,800 locations across the country. These ceremonies are free and open to the public, offering everyone the opportunity to take part in honoring veterans by volunteering to place wreaths in their memory.

Visit the Wreaths Across America website to find a participating location near you and join this powerful movement of remembrance and gratitude.

Source: Truckers News

Image: Wreaths Across America

The post Trucking Convoy Prepares to Deliver Commemorative Wreaths to Arlington National Cemetery appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

Each year, WAA partners with over 300 transportation companies to execute their mission across the United States. According to Courtney George, WAA’s director of transportation and industry relations, “These companies donate equipment, fuel, staffing, and time to deliver loads of sponsored veterans’ wreaths to their final resting places on the headstones of our nation’s servicemembers laid to rest at more than 4,200 participating cemeteries nationwide.”

The initiative “Truckloads of Remembrance” seeks to broaden its reach within the industry, leveraging the backing of various industry associations nationwide.

With this renewed collaboration, TCA is now a registered WAA payback Sponsorship Group, actively supporting wreath placement at Arlington National Cemetery. This December, TCA plans to deliver one trailer load of sponsored veterans’ wreaths, requiring the assistance of its members and public supporters.

A single trailer transports around 5,000 wreaths. Each wreath sponsorship costs $17, with TCA receiving $5 per sponsorship to benefit the TCA Scholarship Fund. Since its inception in 1973, this fund has provided scholarships to students linked with the trucking industry.

“TCA is excited to expand its partnership with Wreaths Across America on its Truckloads of Remembrance campaign and help raise awareness and wreaths sponsorships for the mission,” shared TCA President Jim Ward. “And to be able to also raise monies for our Scholarship Fund at the same time, that is a win-win.”

For those who wish to contribute to TCA’s goal of sponsoring 5,000 veterans’ wreaths, please click here.

Source: The Trucker

Image: Wreaths Across America

The post Truckload Carriers Join Forces with Wreaths Across America for Memorial Initiative appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

“WAA is seeking carriers and drivers to join our mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach,” states the organization.  “As the program continues to grow, with over 4,500 participating locations nationwide this year, several opportunities exist to find the perfect lane and make a meaningful impact.” Annually, Wreaths Across America partners with over 300 transportation companies to ensure wreaths reach over 4,200 cemeteries, honoring millions of veterans.

“Wreaths Across America relies on the transportation industry to move the mission,” mentions Courtney George, director of trucking and industry relations at Wreaths Across America. The ‘Honor Fleet’, consisting of carriers and drivers, reliably delivers sponsored veterans’ wreaths nationwide.

Find out more about volunteering and join the mission here.

OOIDA Teams Up with Wreaths Across America

The Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA) has teamed up with Wreaths Across America to sponsor 5,000 wreaths for Arlington National Cemetery this December. This partnership allows people to sponsor wreaths for $17, supporting both WAA and OOIDA’s Truckers For Troops campaign.

“We have wanted to find a way to participate as an association, knowing that many of our members themselves volunteer to haul for Wreaths Across America,” says Norita Taylor, OOIDA’s public relations director.

Long-time WAA supporter Don Crouse remarks, “Once you haul these wreaths, you’re going to want to be there every year.” OOIDA member Lamar Buckwalter says, “I’m trying to promote a positive view of trucking.”  “I’ve built a lot of good friendships and hope to make an impact along the way. These aren’t just wreaths. They represent and celebrate the life of a fallen veteran.”

Source: Land Line

The post Wreaths Across America 2024: Calling All Truck Drivers appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.