As fireworks lit up skies across the U.S., truck drivers from our Truck Drivers USA community marked Independence Day in all kinds of ways—on the highway, at home, and everywhere in between. The 4th of July might be behind us, but their stories reflect the reality of life on the road: moments of solitude, sacrifice, celebration, and connection, whether rolling through Wyoming or relaxing with family in Ohio.
Here’s a look at where some of our drivers were this Independence Day:
Celebrating at Home or Off the Clock
For many, the day was a rare moment to slow down and unwind.
- Carla Crim spent her evening in Ohio, solo but content, watching Jaws 3.
- Jack Harris also stayed in, relaxing at home and listening to his neighbors’ fireworks echo through the night.
- Crystal Dahlman, a top fan, shared her 4th with her grandkids, watching TV and enjoying some quiet family time.
- Tom Cutler enjoyed the holiday at home with his two loyal fur babies.
- Andrew Joseph spent it at his sister’s house in Ames, Iowa.
- Deb Brogdon checked in from Bascom, Florida.
- Mike Fitzgerald was in Edmond, Oklahoma.
- Dennis Smith simply said: “Home.”
Still on the Move, But Making the Most of It
For drivers who were working or on the road, the 4th looked a little different, but they found ways to enjoy it nonetheless.
- Ashley Wade was making her way into Lake Havasu, heading toward Minneapolis.
- Leisa Jackson was rolling toward Houston, keeping her spirits up: “Happy 4th of July!”
- Rick Yates was in California’s Bay Area, getting loaded and prepping for a run down I-40.
- Dennis Winstead was headed toward California as well.
- Paul Trotter, a top fan, was loading up in Michigan.
- Kim Sluyter started her day on I-17 south of Flagstaff and expected to end it somewhere along I-10.
- Harold Warwick had a busy day, delivering to the Walmart DC in Gas City, Indiana, then making his way to Paw Paw, Michigan, for the next pickup.
Truck Stops, Terminals, and Everywhere in Between
Some drivers found themselves at familiar haunts or waiting out the holiday in quieter spots.
- Dan Carr was across from the Flying J in Aurora, Oregon.
- Larry Robertshaw was parked in Kanona, New York, near the Pilot/Love’s and even set off fireworks from above the westbound rest area.
- Sean Newcomer checked in from the Love’s in Shorter, Alabama.
- Jeffery Lewis was at the Petro in Salina, Kansas.
- Gary Stewart stopped at the Love’s in Wamsutter, Wyoming.
- David Combs found himself at the Kwik Trip in Worthington, Minnesota.
- Waheed Zazai enjoyed the scenery near Delano, California, and spent time making videos of a nearby grape garden.
- Simon Bowdrey reported from the TA in Prescott, Arkansas, where the heat and humidity were on full blast.
Across the U.S. and Around the World
Others were scattered across the map, from the Midwest to overseas.
- Diane Young and Mary Ridener both celebrated from Cheyenne, Wyoming.
- Pamela Sanchez was in Running Springs, California.
- Jaime Saravia stayed in Haines City, Florida.
- James Kimbley was in Albuquerque, New Mexico.
- Marvin Chacón Madrigal, a top fan, was grateful to be safe at home.
- Kasey Kindrick celebrated all the way from London, England.
- Paul Wallis was in Iligan City, Philippines.
- Sigfredo Ariel Aizpurua spent the day at the Terpel gas station in Penonomé, Panama.
- Mark Reese, retired after 45 years, was relaxing in Volcan, Panama.
Riding with Family or Missing Them from Afar
Some shared sweet updates about their loved ones—either being reunited or waiting for them to come home.
- Pam Budd Goodwin shared that her husband was on the road in Nebraska but planned to be home by Sunday.
- Shelly Stockton said her husband was in Montana heading for Idaho, while she was holding it down back in Michigan.
- Gail Boyce was thrilled: “My son is home! Thought he would be working, so he’s relieved.”
More Check-Ins from Around the Country
Our drivers showed up from every corner of the country:
- Norman Larsen from Cheyenne, WY
- Lyle W Brunson at the I-80 & I-25 intersection
- John Bushbaum from his brother’s place in Silver Lake, WI
- Ashley Davis from Madison, GA
- Randy Jaye Westbrooks in Kingsport, TN
- Marion D. Hill in northeast Texas
- Don Smith in Mineola, TX
- Lisa Michelle McDowell in West Virginia
- Jeff Dewey, retired in Eagle River, WI
- Judy Cobb at Outback RV Resort
- John Hubalek Jr. is safe and sound in Oswego, NY
- Catherine Guill gave a shoutout to her dad and all drivers out there
- Matt Marckese in Brush, CO
- Jesse Ray Rex in Gila Bend, AZ
- Chris Hill in Flat Rock, NC
- Mary Cruikshanks in Cincinnati, OH
- Bob Boss was hosting in Stamford, CT
- Trudy Fearday checked in from Friendship Beach and also mentioned Adams, Wisconsin
- Michael Wamhoff in Jessup, Maryland
- Sekh Denise in Savannah, GA
- Maxamed Ismacil in Phoenix, AZ
- Bill Cutsinger in Cullman, AL
- Rhonda Starling in Florida
- Sherry Stroy kept things light with a quick “LOL.”
- Al Cravenjr Jr. near MM37
- Jordain Wilburn stayed home this year, remembering the last 4th spent at a truck stop in Laredo, TX.
Whether behind the wheel or with family, working or resting, drivers across our community spent the 4th of July in ways as varied as the roads they travel. And no matter where they were, one thing was clear: the spirit of resilience and pride runs deep in this profession.
To all drivers out there—thank you for keeping the country moving, every day of the year.
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