Viewpoint: Truckers help drive economy and keep our communities supplied. Let's thank them

Professional truck drivers are the backbone of the American economy. Visit any grocery store, business or medical facility in Oklahoma and that becomes immediately obvious. Whether you are buying clothing at a retail store or a filling up your tank at a gas station, nearly every part of our lives is impacted, and made possible, by the work of a professional truck driver. 

In the midst of a global pandemic in which they faced unforeseen challenges, the professional men and women behind the wheel came through for America when they were needed most, when the world stopped, they kept moving. Despite the numerous risks to their personal health and safety, the shelves in our stores remained stocked, and our families remained provided for.

This year, from Sept. 12-18, we celebrate National Truck Driver Appreciation Week. This week is an opportunity for the general public to extend a thank-you to the men and women who drive America’s economy and keep their communities supplied.

During our most challenging times, it is important to thank and acknowledge the essential men and women who step up and ensure that our way of life remains intact. If you see a truck on the highway, or taking a break at a rest stop, I encourage everyone to take a moment and say thank you — or at the very least recognize that the driver is most likely in the middle of delivering the goods that keep America moving. Maybe delivering to our community here in Duncan, or a community that a family member or loved one resides. 

The next time you’re cruising down the highway and pass by a truck, give him or her the famous honking sign — they’ll love it! If a passenger in your vehicle is able to capture the moment on video, post it to social media and include the hashtag #honkforhighwayhereos and #thankatrucker.

As essential workers, trucking’s 3.6 million professional drivers haul more than 10 billion tons of freight every year, which accounts for 70% of total U.S. freight tonnage. It is difficult to imagine our society without truck drivers delivering our vital goods the way they do. More than 80% of U.S. communities rely exclusively on trucks to deliver their freight.

Most importantly, America’s professional truck drivers are committed to doing their jobs safely, because they too are mothers and fathers, sons and daughters, and friends and neighbors. The next time you speak with a professional truck driver, ask them how many safe miles he or she has, but don’t be surprised if the answer is in the millions.

Can you imagine what our lives would be like if groceries, medicine or gasoline wasn’t readily available? We appreciate the hard work and the sacrifices professional truck drivers and their families make every day, so that we never have to find out.

This National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, I ask that we all recognize the important role that truck drivers have in keeping our communities supplied and stocked with the critical goods that we take for granted.

Jonelle Johnson is CEO of Continental Drive Away Inc., located in Oklahoma City and Duncan.