“The Patriotic Pies program is a great way to show appreciation for the men and women who serve our country,” said Barry Blakely, president and CEO, Averitt. “We are proud to play a role in supporting our troops and the communities where our associates live and work.”

This year’s effort moved close to 115,000 MoonPies into military communities. Chattanooga Bakery supplied the treats, and Averitt handled the transportation, delivering the loads to bases and USO centers, including Fort Campbell, Fort Bragg, Fort Johnson, Fort Stewart, Camp Shelby, and other locations throughout the region.

For drivers, this kind of project highlights the side of trucking that goes beyond mileage and freight drops. These deliveries bring a bit of home to service members who spend long stretches away from their families.

“Averitt’s support of the Patriotic Pies program reflects the company’s long-standing commitment to the military community,” Averitt said. “Nearly 12% of Averitt’s workforce is made up of veterans, and the company has been recognized multiple times as a Military Friendly Employer. Averitt also partners with Operation Stand Down Tennessee, an organization that provides resources and support to veterans and their families.”

With another year of MoonPie runs completed, the partnership continues to show how the trucking industry can step up in ways that have a real impact on people who serve.

Image Source: Averitt

Source: The Trucker

The post Mission: MoonPie — Averitt and Chattanooga Bakery Fuel Troop Smiles appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.

On June 4, around 9:10 a.m., Olsen was driving along US-89N near Garden City, Utah, when a motorcyclist lost control and went down on the road.

“I came to a stop and went to assess the situation,” Olsen recalled. “He was having trouble breathing; I think it was as a result of the impact with the road.”

Despite no cellphone coverage where the crash happened, Olsen stayed with the injured rider for more than 90 minutes. He gave the motorcyclist ibuprofen and water, helping him catch his breath. The rider complained of rib pain but didn’t appear to have any other injuries. A passing driver managed to alert emergency services using a satellite phone. Olsen also helped slow traffic to keep everyone safe until help arrived.

“I didn’t want to leave him hanging,” Olsen said. “I ride a motorcycle myself, and this easily could have been me. I felt like it was my responsibility to make sure he was taken care of.”

Once emergency crews arrived, Olsen was able to continue his journey. His quick thinking and kindness made all the difference that day.

Source: FleetOwner

The post Truck Driver Kevin Olsen Honored as TCA Highway Angel for Helping Injured Motorcyclist appeared first on Truck Drivers USA.