Exchange Recognizes, Thanks Associates During Driver Appreciation Week

Exchange drivers go the extra mile for Warfighters and families—and during National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, the organization is doing the same for them.

From Sept. 9 through Sept. 15, the Logistics and Loss Prevention directorates are celebrating the truck drivers who make it possible for the Exchange to go where our Warfighters go.

As part of the celebration, each driver will receive a high-luminosity flashlight to keep in their vehicles. The flashlights were a specific request that came from a drivers meeting at the beginning of the year.

‘Tough job’

Drivers regularly perform pre-trip and post-trip inspections on their tractors and trailers, most often at night or before dawn. The flashlights will be an asset to the drivers ensuring safe transportation of goods.

“Truck drivers have a tough job that can be dangerous,” said Mike Jones, Region Loss Prevention Manager. “Exchange drivers are extremely safety-conscious, and LP wanted to give them something that would make their jobs a little easier.”

Exchange drivers—55 of whom are Veterans or retired military—covered more than 11 million miles last year, bringing goods to Soldiers, Airmen and families all over the world.

‘Best in the business’

Five Exchange drivers have logged more than 2 million miles, and 21 drivers have reached the million-mile mark.

“Our drivers are the best in the business. They work tirelessly to serve our customers, and we wanted to let them know how much we appreciate and value their efforts.”

-Billy Shirley, Fleet Safety Manager

In Exchange history, four drivers have been inducted into the National Private Truck Council’s Hall of Fame. Most recently, the Exchange drove away with the top prize at the Great American Trucking Show for the second year in a row.

“Our drivers are the best in the business,” said Billy Shirley, Fleet Safety Manager. “They work tirelessly to serve our customers, and we wanted to let them know how much we appreciate and value their efforts.”

Exchange transportation terminals will issue these flashlights, along with batteries. Each terminal will have its own special way to recognize drivers, as well as the many stores that are serviced this week.

Is your Exchange celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week? Send us your pictures at ExchangePost@aafes.com!