Last week, members of the Truckload Carriers Association delivered about 5,600 wreaths each to 405 cemeteries across the U.S. as part of the Wreaths Across America program.

New this year, wreath ceremonies were added for the various locations where planes went down on Sept. 11, 2001. As the wreaths were delivered, the convoys stopped at various schools and veterans rallies as part of the program's mission to remember the fallen, honor those who serve in the military, and teach children the value of their service. The effort culminated with various nationwide wreath-laying ceremonies around noon on Dec. 12, 2009, which was designated by the U.S. Congress as "Wreaths Across America Day."

"Many people recognize that this is a great opportunity to support the men and women who fought for our freedom, and to do something that honors their sacrifice," said Barry Pottle, president and CEO of Pottle's Transportation, who participated. "So when I asked some of the other trucking companies to get involved, I wasn't too surprised that they immediately stepped up to the plate."

One of the largest of all the ceremonies took place at Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington, Va. Pottle personally drove one of the loads that contained some of the special wreaths for this ceremony, including wreaths for President John F. Kennedy's gravesite and the Tomb of the Unknowns. Pottle recruited TCA members Baylor Trucking, Prime Inc., Jagtrux, and Motor Carrier Services to join in on the effort.

More info: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org