GREEN BAY, Wis. — Schneider National Inc. is announcing company driver Greg Smith, a U.S. Air Force veteran, as this year’s Schneider Ride of Pride driver.
Ride of Pride
Recognizing military veterans is a longstanding tradition at the carrier. Ride of Pride is an annual initiative started by Daimler Truck North America to honor military service and sacrifice. The Daimler’s Cleveland, N.C. manufacturing plant produces specially decorated Freightliner Cascadia trucks that serve as rolling tributes across the country. Since the program began in 2001, Schneider has received 15 Ride of Pride trucks from Freightliner, the most of any carrier.
Smith received his new truck on May 23 and has already represented Schneider at an event in Washington, D.C. This year’s truck honors all those affected by the events of September 11, 2001, serving as a tribute to their memory and the sacrifice that followed.
Greg Smith
“In my wildest dreams, I never thought I would be selected to drive a Ride of Pride truck,” Smith said. “Schneider has been given a great responsibility to honor all those affected by September 11th, our military, the civilians who lost their lives that day, the surviving family members, firefighters, police officers, and our nation.”
Smith served more than 21 years in the U.S. Air Force before transitioning to a career as a truck driver. He joined Schneider in 2017, where he hauls on a Dedicated account and is a driver instructor. During his military career, Smith held a variety of leadership roles, including serving as a First Sergeant responsible for more than 500 airmen, and he spent years supporting military honors programs that left a lasting impact on him.
Transition to Trucking
Smith said Schneider’s strong alignment with military values helped make the transition to civilian life easier.
“When I saw Schneider’s focus on safety and integrity, it felt familiar,” Smith said. “You’re surrounded by people who understand where you come from. You’re not just a number here, you belong.”
Military-Friendly Employer
According to a company press release, Schneider is consistently recognized as a top military-friendly employer in the trucking industry. Today, 24% of the company’s associates have military experience.
“Ride of Pride reflects our responsibility to honor those who have worn the uniform and support them as they build meaningful careers at Schneider,” said Jim Filter, Schneider executive vice president and group president of transportation and logistics and a U.S. Marine Corps veteran. “With driver and veteran Greg Smith behind the wheel, we’re proud to carry that legacy forward while recognizing the leadership, discipline and sense of purpose veterans bring to our organization every day.”
Smith will participate in major events across the country, including Wreaths Across America, Fourth of July celebrations and observances tied to the 25th anniversary of September 11, 2001, using the truck as a platform to connect with survivors, first responders, veterans, Gold Star families and communities nationwide.
Dana Guthrie is an award-winning journalist who has been featured in multiple newspapers, books and magazines across the globe. She is currently based in the Atlanta, Georgia, area.
