The American Trucking Assns. has issued a reminder that National Truck Driver Appreciation Week 2005 will begin Sunday, Aug. 21, and run through Saturday, Aug. 27.

America’s 3 million-plus professional truck drivers will receive a nationwide pat on the back in recognition of their hard work in moving the goods and products that make up our national economy.
During the annual celebration, motor carriers, state trucking associations and trucking industry manufacturers and suppliers will honor drivers in various ways. These could include million-mile and safety awards, cash bonuses or gifts, an extra paid day off, a cup of coffee or windshield cleaning at truckstops, and lots of company picnics -- some lasting all week until every driver cycles through company headquarters.
Elsewhere, carriers encourage office workers to greet drivers on arrival and give them a break and a "thank you" by checking their oil and tires, cleaning windshields, fueling and washing trucks. Office personnel at some companies are also encouraged to spend a few days out on the road to see the driver’s side of their business.
Carriers and others are encouraged to share their National Truck Driver Appreciation Week celebration plans on a special web site: www.NTDAW.org.
Most of the nation’s governors will join the occasion, too, issuing official proclamations designating Aug. 21-27 as Truck Driver Appreciation Week in their respective states.