Exchange Honors Drivers for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week

The Exchange is inviting associates worldwide to extend a heartfelt thanks to the drivers who keep the Exchange benefit rolling for National Truck Driver Appreciation Week, Sept. 11-17.

“Exchange drivers are the cornerstone of our supply chain operation and the face of the logistics directorate to food and retail facilities,” said Jonah Thomas, fleet operations manager.  “Overcoming the challenges of weather, traffic and scheduling they are the vital link of moving merchandise from the distribution center to our store shelves, ensuring products are available for our service members and their dependents.”

The Exchange has the 10th-largest private retail fleet. Exchange drivers not only go above and beyond to carry out the Exchange mission, they do so with exceptional care. Through July 22, fleet driver-fault accidents are down 32% compared with the same time last year, and accidents that are the fault of other drivers are down 66% during the same period.

Exchange associates are encouraged to thank Exchange and commercial drivers. Stores can even get creative with thank-you signs, banners, gift cards, treats and other gestures of appreciation.

“Exchange drivers provide emergency support by delivering Mobile Field Exchanges (MFE) during natural disasters, field exercises and special events,” Thomas said.  “They always stand ready, willing, and able to support. This week is designated to recognize their dedication and contributions to the Exchange.

“During this annual event, many stores go above and beyond by hosting special events, cake presentations and even catering meals for our drivers. Even a simple thank you goes a long way in expressing your support.”

National Truck Driver Appreciation Week was established in 1998 by the American Trucking Association to honor the 3.5 million professional men and women who travel America’s roadways.

Want to see your team’s thank-you to Exchange drivers featured in the Exchange Post? Send photos of your associates thanking their drivers to exchangepost@aafes.com and socialmedia@aafes.com to be featured in an upcoming article. Be sure to include the names and titles of the pictured associates and drivers.