Patriotism lies deep in the hearts of American truckers who have served in wars. Although the memories are often painful, several truckers wanted to share their memories of combat and their thoughts on the Fourth of July holiday.
Independence Day is also Kurt Smith’s birthday. Smith, of New Haven, Conn., leases to Horseless Carriage and thinks it’s an honor to celebrate his birthday on a military holiday. He doesn’t have a big birthday celebration, but he tries to relax and reflect on the past.
“It’s not only my birthday but a great day for men who’ve given their lives or part of their life for freedom and a better tomorrow,” he says.
Roger Hogeland, an independent driver from Fontana, Calif., served as a Marine gunner on a medivac crew in Vietnam. He was a Marine for seven years, and he received three Purple Hearts.
Hogeland’s best friend was a gunner in the U.S. Army. His friend and cousin died in Vietnam, but Hogeland survived.
“The Fourth has always meant a lot to me,” Hogeland says. “Patriotism means a lot. I was on the Medivac crew that picked up my friend. My cousin also died over there. I appreciate everyone who is and will be in the military and have a high respect for them.”
Roscoe House says that the Fourth of July is celebrated in a big way in his hometown of New Orleans. He leases to Combine Transportation Systems of Valparaiso, Ind., and he served as a U.S. Army Ranger in the Evacuation Phase of the Vietnam War.
