This month, Crete Carrier Corp. welcomed five special trucks into its newly launched Patriot Fleet.

The new black International ProStar tractors differ from the other 6,000 company trucks in that they are decorated with decals that honor the United States Armed Forces.

"The Patriot Fleet trucks represent those that have served and sacrificed for our freedoms," notes Tonn Ostergard, president and CEO at Crete Carrier. "We are honored to add these five Patriot Fleet trucks to the fleet and proudly represent America's heroes."

Five veterans have been chosen to drive the custom Patriot Fleet trucks, but The Patriot Fleet doesn't stop with the five men behind the wheel, say company officials.

"Since nearly 30% of the employees at Crete Carrier Corp. have veteran status, these trucks represent all of those members within the Crete Carrier and Shaffer Trucking family," says Jeff Dady, driver development manager. "We are all very proud of the men and women who have shown their patriotism to our country."

The company is recognizing those drivers, shop, and office employees with the five trucks, but also with custom identification tags and individual patriot fleet decals.

Through the years, Crete Carrier has participated in a number of programs specifically for current and former military personnel, including contributions to the Operation Enduring Care Program of the USO, being a certified employer partner of the Armed Forces, and supporting the Wounded Warrior Program.