• DALLAS

The Army & Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) is celebrating National Truck Driver Appreciation Week by recognizing the dedicated drivers who keep shelves stocked, restaurants supplied and “a taste of home” moving to troops and military families worldwide. 

From Sept. 13 through Sept. 19, PXs and BXs worldwide will thank these road warriors, who support the retailer’s “We Go Where You Go” mission, with signs, banners and other recognition. 

The appreciation week highlights the essential role drivers play in helping Exchange shoppers access their hard-earned benefit of tax-free goods, services, food and more, wherever they are called to serve. 

“Truck drivers are vital to keeping the Exchange mission moving,” said Army Col. Emanuel Velez, the Exchange’s deputy director of Logistics. “Every mile driven reflects commitment to something larger than the destination.  

“Our drivers sustain communities, enable missions and ensure the people who serve never lack the support they need.” 

THE NUMBERS 

The Exchange, the Department of War’s (DoW) largest retailer, has the 15th-largest private retail fleet in the United States. More than 150 truck drivers deliver for the Exchange worldwide, and 29 percent are veterans. 

The fleet also provides critical natural disaster support, hauling 53-foot Mobile Field Exchanges (MFE) that bring stores on wheels to areas that need them most. 

HISTORY 

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, launched by the American Trucking Associations (ATA) in 1988, honors professional drivers for their hard work and commitment in one of the economy’s most demanding and important jobs.  

The 2026 observance is the 38th annual celebration and recognizes the 3.6 million professional drivers who help keep America moving. 

Source: AAFES 

Edited by Larry Lapka