Croke’s involvement began with a personal tribute. He placed a custom fifth wheel cover on his Peterbilt in honor of a close friend who served in the Vietnam War. What started as a quiet nod to a friend soon opened the door to a nationwide effort that brings the trucking industry together each year to honor fallen military service members.

“He’s my best friend in Australia, a trucker, and he always wanted to come to America and drive Peterbilts with me,” Croke said.

Originally from New South Wales, Australia, Croke now serves as a principal analyst for DAT Freight and Analytics. His professional path, however, started far from spreadsheets and market reports. He learned the trade behind the wheel, hauling freight for his family’s trucking company in Australia’s Outback.

That lifelong passion for driving never faded. His 2003 Peterbilt 379, known throughout the industry as “The Grumpy Pete,” regularly appears at major truck shows and industry events across the United States.

A Radio Interview That Changed Everything

Croke’s introduction to Wreaths Across America came unexpectedly during the Mid America Trucking Show in Louisville, Kentucky. While showcasing his truck, he joined Radio Nemo as a guest. During the same broadcast, Courtney George, director of transportation and industry relations for Wreaths Across America, explained the organization’s mission.

“As Courtney was explaining what the organization does, I thought, ‘What a wonderful concept — they put wreaths on the headstones of all of the fallen heroes at Arlington,’” Croke said.

The story behind the organization captured his attention. What began years ago when a wreathmaker placed 5,000 excess wreaths on military graves had grown into a massive national effort powered largely by volunteer truck drivers.

“So, with my Vietnam War connection friend from Australia represented on the back of my truck, I went to Arlington last year just to see what this was about,” he shared. “I watched all the trucks wrapped with pictures of fallen heroes — and then I saw all the fleet trucks wrapped in military colors and themes that were driven by veterans.”

For Croke, the experience revealed how deeply the mission resonates within the trucking community.

“It’s a very moving experience to be part of (the WAA mission). Some drivers spend a week’s vacation (participating) just to connect with all of their buddies,” he said, noting that many drivers involved are veterans themselves. “And even those who never served in the military have found a common bond through delivering the wreaths.”

Seeing the Mission at Its Starting Point

In 2025, Croke had the opportunity to witness Wreaths Across America from its origin point in Columbia Falls, Maine. There, wreaths are produced, organized, and dispatched to destinations across North America and beyond.

The scale of the operation left a lasting impression.

“I was just blown away by the scale of the operation — from the thousands of acres of balsam trees to the hundreds of workers … to the cook team that serves three meals a day in the driver’s lounge, and the dispatch process,” he said.

The setup, he explained, mirrors the logistics operations drivers know well.

“It’s like a combination of a truck stop and a truck terminal. They have everything there,” he said. “It was amazing to watch this process of trucks in and out: The trucks come in and drive around the building; then the drivers come in, sit down, have coffee and food.”

Despite the constant movement, nothing is left to chance. Pickup times are scheduled, loads are prepped, and trucks move through the facility from early morning until midnight until every wreath is on its way.

“I watched this Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (leading up to the truck convoy from Maine to Arlington), and it was this amazing process of trucks in and out,” he said. “It’s cold. It was down to 2 degrees one night.”

The Honor Fleet and the Communities Along the Way

Among the many drivers who volunteer to transport wreaths, being selected for the honor fleet traveling to Arlington National Cemetery carries special meaning.

As the convoy makes its way south, communities along the route gather to show their support. Schools, families, and veterans line the roads, often in freezing temperatures, waving flags and cheering as the trucks pass.

“To see each of the communities that get involved in this — that’s something I never really appreciated, (seeing) the schoolkids out in the cold, waiting for the trucks to pull in and waving their flags,” Croke said.

The shared purpose creates bonds that last well beyond the event.

“The best part is the connections I’ve been able to make with this network of truckers; it’s just a wonderful group of people,” he said. “I’ve become pretty good friends with a bunch of these guys. You could see how they become lifelong connections with this network of truckers.”

A Moment That Put Everything Into Perspective

One interaction during the 2025 event stood out above all others. While at the Wreaths Across America facility, Croke met a couple participating in the honor fleet in memory of their son, Staff Sergeant James C. Shepard. Shepard had served in the Marine Corps for more than ten years before taking his own life.

“In the driver’s lounge (at WAA), you can make your own wreaths,” Croke said. He watched as the parents personally assembled the wreath that would be placed on their son’s grave. “I don’t know if I can adequately put into words what something like that means.”

Closing the Mission at Arlington

Croke’s 2025 Wreaths Across America experience concluded on December 13, National Wreaths Across America Day, at Arlington National Cemetery. There, he served as a radio host as wreaths were placed in remembrance of fallen service members.

For truck drivers and industry leaders alike, his story highlights the role trucking plays beyond commerce. It is a reminder of how the industry can come together to move something far more meaningful than freight.

To learn more about Wreaths Across America or find out how to get involved, visit wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Image Source: Dean Croke (left) captures a visit with Dave Nemo, host of RadioNemo.com, and Martin Garsee, director of transportation training at Houston Community College, during Wreaths Across America 2025. (Photo courtesy of Dean Croke)

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Across the country, volunteers gathered at more than 5,500 national cemeteries to place wreaths on the graves of fallen service members. More than three million wreaths were laid by more than three million volunteers, turning a nationwide logistics effort into a shared act of remembrance.

Behind that effort stood the trucking industry.

Moving the Mission Forward One Load at a Time

At Arlington National Cemetery alone, 69 trucks delivered wreaths ahead of the event. Nationwide, more than 325 carriers helped transport nearly 700 loads, ensuring wreaths reached cemeteries in every region.

Those trucks arrived quietly the day before the ceremony, staging across Arlington’s rolling grounds and waiting for volunteers who would later carry each wreath to a headstone. Drivers did not arrive to fanfare or media attention. They arrived to fulfill a responsibility.

Jason Westcoff of NFI made his sixth delivery to Arlington this year. His wife accompanied him, and his jacket and truck bear patches marking each year he has hauled wreaths for the organization.

A Day Marked by Respect and Stillness

Despite the size of the crowd at Arlington, the atmosphere remained subdued. Visitors moved carefully across the grounds, speaking names aloud as they placed wreaths, acknowledging each service member individually.

There were no interviews, no cameras sweeping the crowd, and no distractions overhead. The focus stayed where it belonged, on remembrance.

This quiet respect is intentional and reflects the values of Wreaths Across America, whose mission centers on remembering the fallen, honoring those who serve, and teaching future generations the value of freedom.

Where the Mission Began

That mission traces back to a childhood visit to Arlington National Cemetery.

As a 12-year-old, Morrill Worcester was struck by the scale and meaning of the site. Years later, after building a successful business, Worcester found himself with a surplus of wreaths at the end of the holiday season in 1992. Rather than discard them, he arranged for those wreaths to be placed at Arlington.

The gesture continued quietly for years until 2005, when an image of snow-covered headstones adorned with wreaths circulated online. What had once been a small tribute grew into a national movement.

Why Trucking Matters to Wreaths Across America

As the program expanded, trucking became essential.

Wreaths Across America depends on carriers and drivers to move wreaths from Maine to cemeteries across the country. Without that network, the mission would not scale.

Executive Director Karen Worcester emphasized this reality during this year’s escort, stating twice, “Wreaths Across America would not exist without the support from the nation’s trucking industry.”

Drivers Share Why They Participate

For many drivers, participating is personal.

Brown Dog Carriers driver Steven Bouthillette delivered his first load this year after planning to take part for some time.

“I’ve wanted to be a part of this event for a long time and was scheduled to deliver last year,” explains Bouthillette. “But circumstances came up that changed plans.

“Missing it wasn’t going to happen again though,” he jokes. “I reminded my dispatcher regularly all this year that I would make it to Arlington. And it truly is a privilege to be here this year.”

Schneider driver Patrice Cook has delivered wreaths to Arlington for four consecutive years while driving a Ride of Pride truck that honors military service. Cook herself served nearly 24 years in the Army.

“I’ve been so lucky to attend this event for a few years now, to meet so many great people in the organization and at the Cemetery,” explained Cook. “This is the best load I haul all year. When I tell drivers that and they doubt me, I just say, ‘Do it once, and you’ll see.’”

She added, “But what’s particularly special is that I get to drive this truck all year long.”

Planning Is Already Underway for Next Year

As soon as the 2025 event concluded, planning began for the next one. Organizing National Wreaths Across America Day requires a full year of coordination among volunteers, carriers, and sponsors.

Through December 31, 2025, wreath sponsorships made through registered groups are matched by the organization. Local groups can be found through Wreaths Across America’s group search.

The organization encourages drivers and carriers interested in participating to consider joining the Wreaths Across America Honor Fleet.

“Our volunteers are the beating heart of the program and work year-round to share this important mission and inspire others to join.”

The mission remains unchanged. Remember the fallen. Honor those who serve. Teach the next generation the value of freedom.

Mission accomplished.

Volunteers can plan ahead for December 19, 2026 at participating cemeteries nationwide. Carriers and drivers interested in supporting future events can learn more at wreathsacrossamerica.org.

Source: The Trucker

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Since 2007, Wreaths Across America has worked year-round under its mission to Remember, Honor, and Teach, a message that resonates deeply throughout the trucking community. What started back in 1992 as a small act of gratitude at Arlington National Cemetery has grown into a national movement that now reaches over 5,400 locations across the U.S. and abroad.

National Wreaths Across America Day will take place on Saturday, December 13, 2025. More than 4 million volunteers are expected to take part in ceremonies that honor fallen veterans through wreath-laying events in all 50 states, at sea, and overseas. Truck drivers are the ones who make these ceremonies possible, hauling over 700 truckloads of live balsam wreaths every season.

“This year, National Wreaths Across America Day will be held on Saturday, Dec. 13, 2025. More than 4 million volunteers and supporters will gather to Remember, Honor and Teach through wreath-laying ceremonies in all 50 states, at sea, and abroad.”

For many fleets, joining the Honor Fleet isn’t just a way to give back; it’s a way to connect their work with something meaningful. Trucking companies that take part gain nationwide recognition through media coverage, community partnerships, and volunteer involvement.

Beyond the good it does, participation also helps boost driver pride and retention. Carriers who’ve partnered in the past often note how the experience brings teams closer together. Taking part in the wreath deliveries or local ceremonies gives drivers a chance to represent their company while honoring those who served.

As Wreaths Across America puts it, the effort only works because truck drivers show up with that dependable “can-do” spirit the industry is known for. Fleets that join the Honor Fleet not only support a national mission but also stand shoulder to shoulder with others who share the same respect for service and sacrifice.

For 2025, Wreaths Across America is inviting more carriers to get involved and help cover remaining routes across the country. Those interested can find open lanes and details about how to sign up by visiting learn.wreathsacrossamerica.org/2025-open-lanes-available.

Image Source: Wreaths Across America

Other Source: The Trucker

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The Honor Fleet is crucial in transporting millions of veterans’ wreaths nationwide every year. These wreaths are delivered to over 4,900 locations, including the revered Arlington National Cemetery. In 2024 alone, an impressive 739 loads of wreaths were transported by 397 trucking companies, exemplifying the scale and impact of their contribution.

Trucking Partners Driving a Noble Mission

Transportation partners are the backbone of WAA’s annual wreath-laying ceremonies. According to WAA, the honorees are recognized for their unwavering dedication, generosity, and relentless commitment to honoring veterans and their families.

This year’s honorees include:

• Abilene Motor Express
• Jetco Delivery
• Hirschbach Motor Lines
• Boyd Grain Inc.
• Big G Express
• Knight Transportation
• Classic Carriers
• Leonard’s Express
• Hoekstra Transportation, LLC
• Convoy Systems LLC
• Paul MH Sagehorn LLC
• Hampton Roads Moving & Storage
• Total Transportation of Mississippi
• Heartland Express
• Waste Masters Solutions
• B. Hunt
• Matrix Expedited Service

Recognizing a Meaningful Contribution

“Many of our partners donating their time each year are veterans themselves, including the professional drivers hauling the loads,” shared Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for Wreaths Across America. “Professional drivers and carriers that join WAA’s Honor Fleet have the desire to do something meaningful to honor veterans and their loved ones, and many say that Wreaths Across America provides a way for them to do that.”

WAA’s mission is a testament to the impact that the transportation industry can have in bringing communities together, demonstrating the deep gratitude and respect owed to our nation’s veterans. These partnerships are not only meaningful efforts to honor veterans but also a source of pride for the carriers involved.

Source: Truckers News
Image Source: TAPinto

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Every year, these carriers play a pivotal role in transporting wreaths to honor American veterans. Courtney George, Director of Transportation and Industry Relations for WAA, stated, “Many of our partners donating their time each year are veterans themselves, including the professional drivers hauling the loads. Professional drivers and carriers that join WAA’s Honor Fleet have the desire to do something meaningful to honor veterans and their loved ones and many say that Wreaths Across America provides a way for them to do that.”

The Role of the Honor Fleet

The Honor Fleet serves as the backbone of Wreaths Across America’s mission, delivering millions of beautifully crafted veterans’ wreaths to locations nationwide. Reflecting on 2024, the fleet hauled 739 loads of wreaths using support from 397 trucking companies to reach more than 4,900 participating destinations, including the esteemed Arlington National Cemetery.

By partnering with the Honor Fleet, trucking companies demonstrate unwavering dedication to giving back to the nation and honoring those who have served.

Celebrating This Year’s Honorees

To celebrate their significant contributions, WAA honors the following 17 carriers for their generosity, commitment, and tireless efforts in supporting veterans and their families over the years:

• Abilene Motor Express

• Jetco Delivery

• Hirschbach Motor Lines

• Boyd Grain Inc.

• Big G Express

• Knight Transportation

• Classic Carriers

• Leonard’s Express

• Hoekstra Transportation, LLC

• Convoy Systems LLC

• Paul MH Sagehorn LLC

• Hampton Roads Moving & Storage

• Total Transportation of Mississippi

• Heartland Express

• Waste Masters Solutions

• J.B. Hunt

• Matrix Expedited Service

By dedicating their resources to WAA’s annual wreath-laying mission, these companies demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to remembering and honoring American veterans and their loved ones.

Source: The Trucker

Image Source: Wreaths Across America

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