Celebrating Excellence on the Open Road: Annual Citizen Driver Award Puts Truck Drivers in the Spotlight
In an industry that keeps the world moving, it’s often the unsung heroes behind the wheel who deserve recognition for their unwavering commitment to excellence. TravelCenters of America’s (TA) annual Citizen Driver award, now in its 14th year, does just that. This prestigious award celebrates professional truck drivers who embody qualities that elevate the trucking profession, including good citizenship, safety, health and wellness, community involvement, and leadership.
Since its inception in 2013, the Citizen Driver award has shone a spotlight on 41 outstanding professional drivers. These individuals have demonstrated not only exceptional driving skills but also a deep commitment to making the world a better place. The award serves as a testament to the incredible professionalism that characterizes the truck driving profession.
The recognition doesn’t stop at applause and admiration. Recipients of the Citizen Driver award receive a cash prize and, perhaps even more importantly, the opportunity to select a TA, Petro Stopping Center, or TA Express location to be dedicated in their honor. This location becomes a lasting tribute to their career and contributions, marked by a bronze historical marker adorned with their image and story. A dedication ceremony attended by the driver’s family and friends adds a personal touch to this celebration. Furthermore, TA generously donates $2,500 to each winner’s chosen organization, furthering the impact of their commitment to the community.
Nominating someone for the Citizen Driver award is a straightforward yet meaningful process. Nominations are currently open and will be accepted until October 27, 2023. Those wishing to honor a remarkable driver can easily submit their nomination online, highlighting the driver’s accomplishments and why they believe the individual deserves this prestigious recognition.
The selection process is rigorous and thorough, ensuring that only the most deserving candidates make it to the final round. A panel of experienced trucking professionals carefully reviews all the nominations to select the Citizen Driver finalists. This impartial evaluation ensures that the award continues to honor those who best exemplify the qualities that bring respect to the truck driving profession.
Last year, the Citizen Driver award found its home with two dedicated members of the Owner-Operator Independent Drivers Association (OOIDA), William McNamee and Lamar Buckwalter. Their names joined a distinguished list of OOIDA members who have been honored in previous years, including Dan Porter, Don Talley, Dick Pingel, and Marty Ellis, the driver of OOIDA’s touring truck.
These exemplary individuals have showcased the industry’s finest qualities, from their commitment to safety and professionalism on the road to their active participation in community initiatives and their dedication to health and wellness.
As the 14th annual Citizen Driver award nominations continue, consider shining a light on a truck driver who embodies the very best of the profession. Whether you’re a fleet owner, an industry executive, a fellow driver, or a supplier, your nomination can play a crucial role in recognizing those who make a difference on our highways and in our communities.
The Citizen Driver award isn’t just a recognition of skill behind the wheel; it’s a celebration of individuals who make our world move, one mile at a time. So, let’s honor those who ensure that the essentials of life reach us all, and nominate a Citizen Driver today. Together, we can continue to spotlight the remarkable individuals who drive the trucking industry forward.
The Citizen Driver award is not just another accolade in the trucking industry; it’s a symbol of respect and gratitude towards those who devote their lives to keeping our supply chains flowing smoothly. In an era where goods are transported across vast distances, these professional drivers serve as the lifeblood of our economy.
Beyond their role as skilled operators of heavy machinery, Citizen Drivers are individuals who go above and beyond the call of duty. They exemplify traits that extend far beyond the confines of their cabs. These are the heroes of the highway, and it’s essential to recognize and celebrate their contributions.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Citizen Driver award is the opportunity for recipients to choose a TA, Petro Stopping Center, or TA Express location to be dedicated in their honor. This goes beyond a mere plaque or certificate; it’s a physical reminder of their legacy.
Imagine pulling into one of these locations and seeing a bronze historical marker proudly displaying the image and story of a Citizen Driver. It serves as a testament to their dedication and passion for their profession. It’s a place where their contributions are permanently etched into the landscape, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.
The dedication ceremony that accompanies the installation of the bronze marker is a heartfelt affair. It’s an opportunity for the driver’s family and friends to come together and celebrate their achievements. It’s a moment of reflection, gratitude, and pride as the driver’s legacy becomes a part of the TA, Petro Stopping Center, or TA Express location.
These ceremonies are a testament to the sense of community that exists within the trucking industry. It’s a reminder that behind every successful driver is a network of support and encouragement. The Citizen Driver award doesn’t just recognize individuals; it acknowledges the collective effort that drives the industry forward.
In addition to the personal recognition and the dedication of a location in their honor, Citizen Drivers have the privilege of selecting an organization to receive a $2,500 donation from TA. This gesture underscores their commitment to making a positive impact not only on the road but also in the communities they serve.
These donations support a wide range of causes, from local charities to national organizations. It’s a way for Citizen Drivers to extend their influence beyond their driving careers, leaving a lasting mark on the causes they hold dear.
The selection of Citizen Drivers is not taken lightly. A panel of experienced trucking professionals, each with a deep understanding of the industry, meticulously reviews all nominations. They look for drivers who not only excel in their driving skills but also embody the core values of good citizenship, safety, health and wellness, community involvement, and leadership.
This rigorous selection process ensures that the Citizen Driver award maintains its prestige and continues to honor those who best represent the finest qualities of the trucking profession.
The Citizen Driver award has become a cherished tradition within the trucking industry. It is a symbol of honor and respect, recognizing those who keep our economy rolling. It is a reminder that behind the scenes of our daily lives, there are dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure that goods are delivered, businesses thrive, and communities flourish.
As the 14th annual Citizen Driver award nominations are open, take a moment to consider the drivers you know who embody the spirit of this award. Whether they are fellow drivers, industry executives, or individuals who admire the industry from afar, your nomination can make a significant difference. It can shine a spotlight on those who make our world move, one mile at a time.
The Citizen Driver award isn’t just a recognition of skill behind the
wheel; it’s a celebration of individuals who make our world move, one mile at a time. These are the individuals who ensure that store shelves are stocked, hospitals receive essential medical supplies, and communities are connected through the transportation of goods.
The life of a truck driver is not an easy one. Long hours on the road, away from home and loved ones, navigating through ever-changing weather conditions and traffic, all while ensuring the safe and timely delivery of cargo. It’s a demanding profession that requires not only skill but also a strong sense of responsibility and dedication.
Citizen Drivers rise above these challenges. They are drivers who have consistently demonstrated their commitment to safety. They are the ones who take every precaution to ensure that their cargo arrives intact, and they return home safely to their families. They serve as beacons of professionalism on our highways, setting an example for others to follow.
But being a Citizen Driver goes beyond the road. It’s about being a good citizen in the broader sense. These drivers actively engage with their communities, participating in initiatives that make a difference. They don’t just transport goods; they contribute to the betterment of society.
Good citizenship is at the core of the Citizen Driver award. It’s about drivers who exemplify qualities that extend far beyond their role as drivers. They are often involved in charitable work, supporting local causes and national charities. They volunteer their time and resources to make a positive impact in the areas they serve.
The dedication of Citizen Drivers extends to the health and wellness of their fellow truckers as well. They understand the physical and mental challenges that come with the profession and work to promote a healthy lifestyle. These drivers actively encourage their peers to prioritize their well-being, whether it’s through exercise, proper nutrition, or stress management.
Leadership is another vital aspect of being a Citizen Driver. These individuals are not just exceptional drivers; they are role models within the trucking industry. Their leadership extends to mentoring and guiding others, helping to shape the next generation of drivers.
Their actions inspire respect not only from their peers but also from the broader community. They represent the trucking profession with dignity and integrity, showcasing the industry’s commitment to excellence.
As the 14th annual Citizen Driver award nominations continue, we have an opportunity to celebrate these exceptional individuals who keep our world moving. They are the ones who ensure that the economy thrives, that essential supplies reach those who need them, and that our communities stay connected.
By nominating a Citizen Driver, we contribute to the continued recognition of these heroes of the highway. We honor their dedication, their contributions to their communities, and their commitment to the values that make the trucking profession great.
In an ever-evolving world, where technology is reshaping industries, the trucking profession remains a bedrock of our society. It’s the drivers who keep the wheels turning, who bridge the gaps between production and consumption, who make it all happen. And the Citizen Driver award is a testament to their importance.
The annual Citizen Driver award is not just an accolade; it’s a celebration of excellence, a tribute to commitment, and a recognition of those who embody the spirit of the trucking profession. These individuals go above and beyond, demonstrating outstanding qualities of good citizenship, safety, health and wellness, community involvement, and leadership.
As we look to the future, let us remember the vital role that truck drivers play in our lives. They are the unsung heroes who ensure that the essentials reach us when we need them. They are the ones who navigate the open road, facing its challenges with courage and dedication.
So, as the nominations for the 14th annual Citizen Driver award remain open, take a moment to reflect on the drivers you know who deserve this recognition. Whether they are your colleagues, friends, or someone you admire from afar, your nomination can help illuminate the path for others to follow.
Let’s celebrate these heroes of the highway, these Citizen Drivers, who drive our nation forward one mile at a time. Their commitment, professionalism, and dedication deserve our applause and admiration. They are the heart and soul of the trucking industry, and they deserve to be in the spotlight.
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