Memorial Day Holiday

Every May, many of us kick off summer with barbecues, beach trips, or town parades. But regardless of our plans, it's crucial to remember the true purpose of this holiday. Memorial Day is dedicated to honoring the soldiers who have sacrificed their lives to protect our freedom.

Here are a few quotes that remind us of the daily sacrifices made by our soldiers, past and present, and help us honor those who have inspired such powerful words. These quotes simply say thank you. We should honor and recognize their service every day, not just on this occasion.

"Memorial Day: Celebrate, honor, remember."

"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same." –Ronald Reagan

"Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them." –Franklin D. Roosevelt

"Patriotism is not short, frenzied outbursts of emotion, but the tranquil and steady dedication of a lifetime." –Adlai E. Stevenson II

"It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God such men lived." –George S. Patton

"And I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free. And I won't forget the men who died, who gave that right to me." –Lee Greenwood

On May 3, 2000, President William J. Clinton designated 3:00 pm on Memorial Day as a time for all U.S. citizens to observe one minute of silence in respect and reverence for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice to protect the freedom of the United States of America. Additionally, keep in your thoughts and prayers the well-being of the men and women currently serving in our armed forces. Have a safe and enjoyable holiday.

Now is the time to prepare your terminal facility for the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. As the first three-day holiday weekend of the year, it is a prime target for thieves who often target truck terminals and dealerships during holidays. The COVID-19 pandemic has seen an increase in vehicle break-ins and the theft of Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs). Constructed with precious metals, DPFs are being stolen using battery-powered saws. Recently, one of our customers had an entire after-treatment system stolen, resulting in significant costs and a six-week downtime due to parts on backorder. Thieves recognize holidays as prime opportunities due to facilities' potential lack of personnel.

Here are some security tips:

• Take extra precautions to secure trucks and valuable items at your facility.
• If your units lack anti-siphon fuel devices or locking fuel caps, instruct drivers not to fill the units at the end of the day.
• Ensure all security alarms and cameras are functional.
• Walk the yard perimeter to verify security fencing is in good condition.
• Move units and materials like pallets and tires away from fences to prevent them from being used to climb over.
• Review and ensure security lighting is operational and adequate. Obstructions like vehicles or trees can create hiding spots for thieves.
• Confirm that the security alarm system is operational and cameras are properly adjusted.
• Consider blocking entrance and exit points to prevent vehicle theft.
• Assign management personnel to check the terminal randomly throughout the three-day weekend.
• Notify local law enforcement of your operating hours over the holidays so they know when to expect activity at your location.

Using a little prevention and common sense can deter thieves and protect your facility from disruptions!

Cargo theft has surged significantly in 2024, with a 41% increase. CargoNet, a cargo theft recording firm, is cautioning truck drivers and supply chain professionals that the upcoming Memorial Day holiday weekend will likely see an even greater rise in theft activity.

Source: CargoNet

The Commercial Vehicle Safety Alliance (CVSA) has scheduled this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week for July 7-13. This initiative aims to improve driving behaviors through a combination of educational efforts, traffic enforcement strategies, and driver interactions with law enforcement.

During Operation Safe Driver Week, law enforcement officers across Canada, Mexico, and the U.S. will be monitoring both commercial motor vehicle drivers and passenger vehicle drivers for unsafe driving behaviors. These behaviors include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Following too closely
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Drivers found engaging in these behaviors will be pulled over and may receive a warning or citation.

Focus for This Year: Reckless, Careless, or Dangerous Driving

The primary focus for this year’s Operation Safe Driver Week is on reckless, careless, or dangerous driving.

• Reckless Driving: Defined as driving with willful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property.
• Careless/Dangerous Driving: Defined as operating a vehicle without due care and attention or reasonable consideration for other motorists or pedestrians.

By targeting these hazardous driving practices, Operation Safe Driver Week seeks to promote safer driving habits and enhance road safety.