While many things have changed in America over the past 10 years, one thing has remained constant: the American truck driver.

Day and night, in good weather and bad, on holidays and weekends, these men and women work tirelessly to deliver the goods that make our lifestyle so great.

There is not a thing we use that did not spend some time on a truck. From the footballs for Friday night’s big game to the seed corn that was planted last spring, everything comes by truck.

They are people just like you and me: grandmas and grandpas, moms and dads, sons and daughters, Little League coaches and volunteer firefighters. When they are behind the wheel, they are being extra vigilant because they know they share the road with family members just like theirs.

What is most impressive is that despite growing congestion and distracted car drivers, these professionals are driving more safely each year. In fact, the fatal accident rate per million miles for professional truck drivers dropped to the lowest level on record in 2010.

As owner of VFS Inc. Transportation in Albert Lea, I am proud to work with these fine men and women. During National Truck Driver Appreciation Week on Sept. 11-17, please join me in thanking them for delivering all the good stuff.

The best way to say thank you is to drive responsibly around trucks. Old-timers have a great saying: “If you can’t see me in the mirror, I can’t see you.” Don’t dart in front or tailgate, and don’t hang out in the truck’s blind spots.

Thank you truck drivers, because so much of what we need and enjoy depends on you!

Warren Amundson

VFS Inc. Transportation

Albert Lea