MATS salutes veterans: Red, white, and blue truck tribute

March 30, 2022
The Veterans In Trucking event is a way for MATS, VIT, and supporting partners to honor this country’s heroes and give back to the people who have given so much for their country

LOUISVILLE—Veterans In Trucking, a new program focused on providing veterans with a career path in the trucking industry, highlighted its efforts at the 50th anniversary of the Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) here.

The Veterans In Trucking event was a way for MATS, VIT, and supporting partners to honor this country’s heroes and give back to the people who have given so much for their country, according to the organization.

Veterans are selected by the carrier they drive for to receive a custom-wrapped truck in honor of their service to our country. The VIT area included these trucks, a people’s choice vote, and other special displays.

The initial recipients of the military-themed trucks have been awarded. Ken Mateer served nearly 22 years in combined military services before retiring and now drives with American Central Transport.

Larry Pope joined the military at age 17 and found discipline, structure, and a purpose. After he left, Pope was looking for the same brotherhood and found trucking. Clean Harbor chose Pope to be the recipient of their custom-wrapped truck because of his sense of comradery, respect, and sense of purpose.

Ted Kieffer served for 21 years in the military driving heavy haul equipment in Germany. Today, he drives for Unlimited Carriers and appreciates their commitment to giving him the hometime he needs.

To learn more about the powerful stories of Mateer, Pope, Kieffer, and others visit Veterans In Trucking.

About the Author

Kevin Jones | Editor

Kevin has served as editor-in-chief of Trailer/Body Builders magazine since 2017—just the third editor in the magazine’s 60 years. He is also editorial director for Endeavor Business Media’s Commercial Vehicle group, which includes FleetOwner, Bulk Transporter, Refrigerated Transporter, American Trucker, and Fleet Maintenance magazines and websites.

Working from Little Rock, Kevin has covered trucking and manufacturing for 15 years. His writing and commentary about the trucking industry and, previously, business and government, has been recognized with numerous state, regional, and national journalism awards.

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