44 10-4 Magazine / July 2026 and the responsibility of doing what some would never even try, and we will get it done. We are problem solvers looking for new ways to do the same old thing. From the days of horses and buggies to modern trucks and trailers, to a future vehicle we haven’t even envisioned yet, truckers are on the job. Truckers greet most days with a tenacity derived from too much caffeine and not enough sleep, but just the right amount of “let’s do this” to get things done. For 250 years we have been driving teams of horses, pulling cannons during the Revolutionary War, sitting atop stagecoaches during the expansion of the West, and delivering ordinances during the latest conflict with Iran. Americans deserve to celebrate like rock stars, so collect up the family, and head into town. Bring your folding chair and a cold drink because this parade will take a while. 250 years is a fantastic accomplishment – we have come so far from the early days of our country. The advancement of technology and medicine could never have been envisioned by the Founding Fathers, but the opportunity to pursue them was. It was freedom and liberty that set the stage for our generation to fulfill its destiny. Not to travel from one town to another or to cross continents, but to blast into space, and now travel outside of our world as we know it. Truckers of the future will be the ones who pilot spaceships through the darkness of time and distance, traveling to faraway planets, connecting people who have with the people who want the things we offer. The first things that come to mind are freedom and liberty, the chance to live a life of your own choosing, protected by a like-minded people, a strong military, and a just legal system. In 1776, the decision to break away from the homeland took major courage and commitment. Throughout this nation’s history, our forefathers have stood on their principles and fought for those less fortunate or oppressed. As long as “We The People” remember who we are as Americans and we continue to lend a helping hand to those in need, it’s only then that we will realize the value of our own liberty. 250 years is a long time, however in the span of human history, it’s but a blink of the eye. The fight must continue if we intend to stay a world power and to control our own destiny, living as free, rugged individuals in the land of plenty. So, I will say it again, “If you do not love this land and the opportunities available here, then GET THE HELL OUT!” This is the land of milk and honey, a place where anyone can be raised in a tenet house and still rise to the office of Vice President of these United States. By the same token, we have a large homeless population that continues to grow, not because of lack of opportunities, but due to the lack of self-awareness. It’s only when we take charge of our own lives and look toward a better future that we can make the necessary changes to celebrate yet another 250 years. Every American plays a role in this success, from the titans of industry to the researchers of medicine, all the way to the everyday person who drives our economy. The time is now, so strike up the band, put on your best red, white and blue outfit, and let’s get to celebrating. Let freedom ring from every town square, and show your pride and support for our military, both past and present. All of us are responsible for the success of this nation, now and in the future, so step up and stand up as the next generation of Americans. It’s time to make a loud noise. Don’t be bashful. Now is the time to honk your horn, ring a bell, or shoot a cannon if you have one. Whatever you do, make it a statement of pride, and do it in honor of those who came before us and paved the road to 250 years. Let’s party, in honor of America’s birthday, 10-4! n
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