OTTAWA — Trucking is more than a job to most people in the industry; it is a way of life, Canadian Trucking Alliance boss David Bradley told truckers today in an open letter to the industry.

"To all those people who make the industry — drivers, mechanics, dispatchers, or if you work at any one of the hundreds of other jobs that keep our economy moving — I thank you on behalf of the Canadian Trucking Alliance and the provincial trucking associations," he said.

National Trucking Week 2011 is being celebrated this week (September 4th to 10th).

There will be barbeques, company picnics and all kinds of other things happening across the country to honor the hundreds of thousands men and women who contribute to the fabric of the trucking industry and to "promote the industry’s dedication to safety … and environmental enhancement."

"These celebrations may seem modest in comparison to what the industry and its people are asked to do every week of the year," says Bradley. "But, they are also befitting an industry that works hard for every dime, that takes satisfaction in a job well done and spending time with each other."

Trucking Week started as an idea from the Canadian Trucking Alliance in the 1990’s, notes CTA. It’s been embraced by the industry as a way to spotlight the contributions those who keep the country’s freight moving, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

"It is surely a privilege and an honor for me to be associated with such a remarkable group of individuals," says Bradley. "Most of the people of the trucking industry are unsung heroes. While you may feel you toil in anonymity, be proud of what you do, know that you are appreciated."