Driving the Mission Home: Brown Trucking Honors Our Fallen Heroes

At Brown Trucking, we believe that the true measure of a company is not just the miles it covers, but the impact it makes on the communities it serves. This December, we were once again humbled to participate in Wreaths Across America, a national movement dedicated to honoring those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom.

What is Wreaths Across America?

Wreaths Across America (WAA) began in 1992 with a simple gesture of gratitude when a Maine wreath maker had a surplus of wreaths at the end of the holiday season. Today, it has grown into a massive national effort with a powerful three-part mission: Remember. Honor. Teach. Each December, on National Wreaths Across America Day, coordinated ceremonies are held at more than 4,000 locations across all 50 U.S. states and abroad. Volunteers place fresh balsam wreaths on the headstones of veterans, speaking each hero’s name aloud to ensure their legacy is never forgotten.

Brown Trucking’s "Honor Fleet"

This year, the mission was personal for us. We were honored to have two of our own Commercial Vehicle Operators—who are also U.S. Army Veterans—lead our involvement. Phil Bader and Tim Rhinehart braved the winter weather and holiday traffic to deliver these symbols of remembrance to cemeteries across the Southeast.

• Phil Bader (Charlotte, NC): Now in his second year participating in the program, Phil delivered wreaths to four stops across South Carolina, including Boiling Springs, Inman, Greer, and Greenville.

• Tim Rhinehart (Jefferson City, TN): In his first year with WAA, Tim managed six stops throughout Southern Georgia. His journey through Savannah, Fort Stewart, and beyond culminated in a moving police escort into the cemetery in Douglas, GA.

Service Beyond the Road

As a company, it is an immense privilege to support an organization that aligns so closely with our values. But the true honor belongs to Phil and Tim. Their transition from serving in the Army to serving their communities behind the wheel is a testament to their character.

We thank Phil and Tim for their willingness to participate in this noble cause. Because of their dedication, hundreds of heroes in the Southeast were honored with the respect and remembrance they deserve this holiday season.