Wreaths Across America's Trucking Tributes Presents Bill Bess with Allen Lund


Professional drivers and trucking companies give so much to the nation. Without the transportation industry, the Wreaths Across America mission to remember, honor, and teach would be nearly impossible to carry out. Veterans’ wreaths move by planes, trains, ships, and livestock trailers, but trucks and their professional drivers transport the lion’s share of America’s respect. In 2021, to be specific, 525 truckloads of wreaths were delivered, representing 390 different carriers.

In November and December, one of the busiest periods of the year for the transportation sector, the Wreaths Across America mission brings drivers together in an effort of unparalleled unity. With a positive, “can-do” work ethic, that unity makes it possible for Americans to honor millions of veterans laid to rest here at home and overseas. With over 3,136 participating locations, in addition to Arlington National Cemetery, transportation logistics are immense.

Many of these drivers are veterans and say the truckload of fresh, balsam-fir wreaths is the most precious cargo they transport in their careers. Wreaths Across America highlights their steadfast commitment in the “Trucking Tributes” feature online and on Wreaths Across America Radio.

This Trucking Tuesday falls on March 29, 2022, as we recognize National Vietnam War Veterans Day. Of the many drivers who served during the Vietnam War and support the mission, 

Bill Bess stands out with distinction as a long-time friend and supporter, and the 800th Vietnam Veteran to be ‘welcomed home and pinned’ by the folks with the Wreaths Across America Mobile Education Exhibit.

Bill is the Director of Carrier Development with the Allen Lund Company Transportation Brokers out of California. “When I entered the service, I was 17, “ Bill explained of his sense of military duty. “I really had it on my heart, and it meant so much to me. I came from a family who had served over the generations. I joined the Air Force and became an airplane instrument repairman. After I completed my training, I had about three months of experience before I was sent to Da Nang. It was a real eye-opener for me, and I think, like many of the guys over there, because of our young age we were invincible. It was great working with other young men on the Phantom F4. We were in charge of the aircraft instruments, the fuel quantity, and those things, and we had three onboard computers we worked with.”

The Founder of the freight brokerage firm, Allen Lund, served eight years in the U.S. Army Reserves. “Each of the company’s offices is encouraged to participate in our “Acts of Kindness” program, “ Bill shared. “It’s not just about money. They want their people out in the community doing things. Wreaths Across America was a natural fit for me and I’ve enjoyed helping other employees get involved with wreath-laying ceremonies and other events. We also helped make connections with carriers for Wreaths. The drivers and carriers we worked with were just so appreciative of the opportunity to be involved.” The specially wrapped ‘Big Al’ tractor has been part of the annual Wreaths Escort to Arlington National Cemetery.

Thank you for your service to our nation Bill Bess and for encouraging others to find a way to serve! Thanks as well to Allen Lund Company for your commitment to veterans in the communities you serve.

You can hear Bill’s full interview on Trucking Tributes which is heard every Trucking Tuesday on Wreaths Across America Radio.