Veterans in the Trucking Industry
Veterans Day
November 11 is recognized throughout the United States as Veterans Day. Originally known as "Armistice Day" in 1919, November 11 was chosen to celebrate and remember the anniversary of the end of World War I. In 1926, Congress made it an annual observance and in 1938 it became a national holiday. Veterans Day "pays tribute to all American veterans-living or dead - but especially gives thanks to living veterans who served their country honorably during war or peacetime".
Other countries such as Great Britain, France, Australia and Canada also celebrate the ending of the war on or near November 11 with Remembrance Day and Remembrance Sunday. Ways that these other countries acknowledge this holiday is by observing 2 minutes of silence at 11 a.m. every November 11.
People from all walks of life have served in the military, and many of whom are our neighbors, parents, grandparents or coworkers. These everyday heroes get recognized for their bravery and service they've dedicated their lives to.
How to Celebrate
- Send Military-themed gifts to a veteran you know
- Send thank you cards
- See what local restaurants and locations are offering special Veterans Day deals
- Send a care package overseas
- Observe 2 minutes of silence on Veterans Day
Veteran Truck Drivers
In the United States today, with over 18 million veterans, 1 in 4 of them are truck drivers. With the demand for truck drivers in the country right now, there has been a new call for U.S. military veterans to become professional drivers. There are many benefits for both military veterans and trucking companies to recruit veterans. Trucking companies are paying top-dollar to attract veterans and offering new perks. Along with the steady pay, it's a steady career that allows for travel with a predictable schedule. The trucking industry also allows potential growth, such as raises, changing routes, or becoming an Owner Operator.
For trucking companies, veterans are highly sought-after because they are known for their work ethic. Typically veterans are more reliable, more communicative, and know how to work hard. They are experienced with hardship and know how to work under pressure and take on big tasks. Beside their work ethic, veterans are highly respected and knowledgeable, with many already having driving experience. Trucking experts conducted studies that have shown veteran truck drivers:
- Had 42% fewer accidents
- drove 98% more miles than non-veteran drivers
- had 68% fewer 'involuntary terminations'
There are a wide variety of reasons why veterans become truck drivers, many of which involve healing on the road and travelling. Others are simply looking for a steady job and income to provide for their families. LGT is proud to support our veteran truck drivers and we wish them all a safe and happy Veterans Day.
Quick Facts on U.S. Veterans
- 19 million living veterans served during at least one war as of April 2021
- 11% of veterans are women
- 5.9 million veterans served during the Vietnam War
- 7.8 million veterans served in the Gulf War era
- Of the 16 million Americans who served during World War II, about 240,000 were still alive as of 2021
- 933,000 veterans served during the Korean War
- As of 2021, the Top 3 States with the highest percentage of veterans were Alaska, Virginia, and Montana
