[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 130 (Friday, September 24, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1746]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING NATIONAL TRUCK DRIVER APPRECIATION WEEK

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                         HON. JAMES L. OBERSTAR

                              of minnesota

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 24, 2010

  Mr. OBERSTAR. Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize America's 
professional truck drivers who serve our Nation by delivering the 
clothes we wear, the food we eat, or the medicine we rely on. This 
week, September 19-25, has been designated National Truck Driver 
Appreciation Week, which provides a perfect opportunity to express our 
appreciation to the 3.4 million professional truck drivers in the 
United States. I urge my colleagues and all Americans to use this week 
to reflect on the important role these hard-working and dedicated 
drivers play in facilitating many aspects of our daily lives.
  Trucking serves as the backbone of our economy, responsible for 
nearly 70 percent of the total U.S. freight tonnage. Over 80 percent of 
communities rely solely on the trucking industry for their goods and 
commodities. Across the Nation, the trucking industry allows businesses 
and manufacturers to connect with consumers in a reliable and efficient 
manner that allows the free flow of goods to power the American economy 
every day.
  One out of every 15 people across this country is employed in the 
trucking industry, making it one of our Nation's largest employers. 
Most individual long-haul drivers average 100,000 to 110,000 miles 
driving per year. In doing so, America's truck drivers sacrifice 
precious time from their families, all the while, they deliver for 
ours. This week we pause to say thank you to them and to their 
families.
  I salute the fine professionals of the Nation's trucking industry and 
their families for the dedication they continue to demonstrate to 
America and for delivering life's essentials safely and securely.

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