WESTLAKE, Ohio --TravelCenters of America LLC, operator of the TA and Petro Stopping Centers travel center brands, participated in the Wreaths Across America (WAA) annual wreath-laying ceremony. Working through the Truckload Carriers Association (TCA), a TravelCenters corporate distribution truck and driver was among the many companies that picked up wreaths from Harrington, Maine, and delivered them to Arlington National Cemetery in Washington, D.C., on December 13.
"Trucking plays an important role in delivering the wreaths, and this year, as Arlington National Cemetery celebrates its 150th Anniversary, we are honored to have one of our trucks and drivers play such an important part in this event," said Tom O'Brien, president and CEO of TravelCenters. "Throughout the year, we honor veterans on military holidays at our sites. I'm happy that we have found another way to show our respect to our veterans, especially during the Christmas season," he added.
Along the route to Arlington, trucks carrying wreaths, escort vehicles and veterans invited by Wreaths Across America, stopped at the Petro Stopping Centers location in Bordentown, N.J., on December 10. The drivers and vets had dinner at the Iron Skillet and spread the WAA message about the importance of remembering fallen heroes and honoring those who served.
More than 25,000 volunteers were expected to help place the 230,000 veteran wreaths at Arlington on December 13, the most wreaths ever donated.
TCA has been coordinating the nationwide effort to organize professional truck driver and motor carrier donations of trucks, time and fuel for the WAA annual event since 2012. The Wreaths Across America organization is a not-for-profit charity that delivers remembrance wreaths to military cemeteries all over the country. These activities are made possible by volunteers who help raise funds to sponsor the wreaths and participate in the event.
TravelCenters of America, Westlake, Ohio, is a leading travel center business with more than 250 locations in 43 states and Canada operating under the TA and Petro Stopping Centers brands.
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