Washington, D.C. — Schneider National handed a specially painted Freightliner Cascadia to Air Force veteran Greg Smith on May 23, naming him the driver of the carrier’s latest Ride of Pride truck. The ceremony capped a week of appearances that included a dedication event on the National Mall, where Smith showcased the tribute to the public.
The Ride of Pride program, launched by Daimler Truck North America in 2001, equips select carriers with rolling memorials that travel to veterans’ events, memorial services and community celebrations. Schneider has amassed 15 of these trucks, the most of any carrier, reinforcing its long‑standing commitment to honoring service members and first responders.
Smith’s appointment marks the first time a former Air Force First Sergeant has piloted a Ride of Pride vehicle for Schneider. After 21 years in uniform, where he oversaw more than 500 airmen, Smith joined the carrier in 2017 and now splits time between a dedicated OTR account and driver‑instructor duties. The 2026 truck focuses on the September 11, 2001 attacks, saluting fallen civilians, surviving families, firefighters, police officers and the military who responded.
What This Means for Drivers
For CDL‑A drivers, the Ride of Pride offers a high‑visibility platform to connect with veteran networks and community sponsors, potentially opening new freight lanes tied to commemorative events. Owner‑operators can expect increased demand for short‑haul runs to festivals, Wreaths Across America ceremonies and Fourth of July parades where the truck makes scheduled stops. Schneider’s emphasis on safety and integrity, values Smith says mirror his military experience, translates into stricter compliance checks that align with FMCSA regulations, giving drivers clearer expectations on vehicle upkeep and driver conduct.
Industry Reaction
Other carriers have praised Schneider’s effort, noting that visible tributes help humanize the trucking industry and attract talent amid a tight labor market. Veteran advocacy groups see the program as a tangible bridge between service members and civilian careers, encouraging more former military personnel to consider truck driver jobs. The broader industry views the Ride of Pride as a model for corporate responsibility, especially as trucking companies vie for drivers by highlighting community involvement and respect for service.
Key Points
- Greg Smith, a 21‑year Air Force veteran, became Schneider’s newest Ride of Pride driver on May 23, 2026.
- The 2026 truck honors victims and responders of the September 11 attacks while traveling to events nationwide.
- Schneider operates 15 Ride of Pride trucks, the highest count among U.S. carriers.
- Veterans comprise 24% of Schneider’s workforce, underscoring the company’s recruitment focus on former service members.
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