LOUISVILLE, KY — TravelCenters of America recently spotlighted the backbone of the American freight industry by naming William McNamee and Lamar Buckwalter as the 2023 Citizen Drivers of the Year during the Mid-America Trucking Show. These two professionals rose to the top of a competitive field of eight finalists, standing out for their commitment to safety and their contributions to the trucking community at large.
The Citizen Driver program, which launched in 2013, aims to elevate the profile of the professional driver beyond the cab. McNamee, a veteran of Carbon Express with 32 years of experience, chose the TA location in Mount Vernon, Illinois, for his commemorative dedication. For him, the facility represents a home away from home where the staff are considered close friends. Meanwhile, Buckwalter, a seasoned owner-operator from Leola, Pennsylvania, with over 4 million accident-free miles, selected the Petro in Carlisle for his honor. Buckwalter’s path to the award was marked by a moment of genuine confusion; he initially dismissed the notification email as a scam before verifying the legitimacy of the background check process with the company.
TravelCenters of America processed 150 nominations for this cycle, underscoring the high regard held for drivers who demonstrate character and integrity on the road. Each winner receives a dedicated travel center and a $2,500 charitable donation to an organization of their choosing. Barry Richards, president of TravelCenters of America, noted that the program remains a vital tool for reminding the public of the essential nature of the profession.
What This Means for Drivers
This program highlights that there are many paths for a CDL-A driver to gain recognition beyond simple mileage milestones. Owner-operator professionals and company drivers alike should track these nomination windows, as the next cycle opens in late summer. Building a reputation as a safe, community-focused operator can lead to industry-wide acclaim that benefits both your career and your local community. Seeking out top-tier trucking companies hiring for long-term stability often leads drivers to these types of professional development opportunities.
Industry Reaction
Industry leaders continue to emphasize that the 3.5 million professionals currently on the road are the primary drivers of the national economy. By showcasing individual stories of excellence, the program attempts to shift the public narrative toward respect for the profession. This recognition serves as a reminder that even in an era of strict FMCSA regulations and fluctuating freight rates, the individual character of the driver remains the most valuable asset in the logistics chain.
Key Points
- William McNamee brings 32 years of experience to the table, representing Carbon Express.
- Lamar Buckwalter achieved 4 million accident-free miles as an independent owner-operator.
- TA will donate $2,500 to a charity of each winner's choice to support their local communities.
- The program saw 150 total nominations for the 2023 cycle, with 2024 nominations opening in late summer.
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