Citizen Drivers named by Travel Centers of America

Two longtime truckers with millions of safe driving miles to their credit were recognized as Citizen Drivers by Travel Centers of America (TA) for their professionalism on the road and service to their communities.

TA President Barry Richards announced this year’s winners of the Travel Centers of America Citizen Driver Awards as Dan “Dusty” Porter, of Acton, Ontario, Canada, who drives for Werner Enterprises, and Don Talley, of Muncie, Indiana, who is a driver for Carter Express.

Chosen from 85 nominations, the two winners are given $2,500 each to donate to the charities of their choice. Talley chose St. Christopher Fund to receive his full donation while Porter chose to give half of his to St. Christopher and half to Truckers United for Charities.

Additionally, the two truck drivers will have a TA location named in their honor. Porter chose the Glendale, Ken., location while Talley chose the TA in Gaston, Indiana, to bear his name.

According to TA President Richards, the difficulties in 2020 put truck drivers in a new light for many people. “Last year, Americans were reminded of the essential role professional drivers play in their everyday lives, as the industry quickly rose to meet unprecedented challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said. “We want to continue to share these drivers’ stories and demonstrate why they deserve respect and recognition year-round.”