Every December, something remarkable happens on highways, back roads, and quiet routes across the country: Thousands of small fleets and independent drivers step up to help Wreaths Across America ensure that every veteran is remembered, honored, and celebrated with a wreath placed at their resting place. It’s one of those missions that reminds you just how strong and connected this industry really is.

Work Truck spoke with Naeem Bari, co-founder and president of Linxup, who shared why these fleets are the heartbeat of the operation and how companies like his are working behind the scenes to support the mission.

Why Small Fleets Make a Big Difference

Bari put it simply: “Small fleets and independent drivers play a vital role in Wreaths Across America each December. You don’t need a massive operation to make a meaningful impact; every truck, every route, and every load of wreaths helps ensure that a veteran is remembered and honored.”

That’s the beauty of this mission. It’s not about how big your operation is, it’s about heart. Small fleets are often deeply rooted in their communities, working with the same grit, compassion, and dedication that veterans themselves exemplified. 

Their involvement brings a personal touch to every delivery. Each mile becomes a chance to give back, support families, and participate in something that reaches far beyond business.

What Motivates These Drivers To Step Up

When you think about what it takes to volunteer your time, equipment, and energy during the busiest season of the year, the motivation has to come from somewhere meaningful.

Bari explained, “Drivers are motivated by a strong sense of purpose and community. Volunteering for Wreaths Across America gives them a chance to give back, honor veterans, and be part of something bigger than themselves. For small fleet and independent drivers, it’s personal.”

He added that the qualities many veterans bring to the trades, such as discipline, structure, and problem-solving, are the same qualities these drivers bring to the mission. Whether they’re supporting families or carrying on a tradition of remembrance, every mile makes a difference.

How Linxup Supports the Mission Behind the Scenes

For Linxup, participating in Wreaths Across America isn’t just sponsorship; it’s something their team feels deeply connected to.

“At Linxup, we believe it’s important to give back to the communities we serve and to honor those who’ve sacrificed for our freedom,” Bari said. “Wreaths Across America is such a powerful mission because it brings people together across the country to pause, remember, and honor those veterans in a very meaningful way.”

When the Linxup team realized just how much the program depends on small fleets and independent drivers, the connection became even stronger.

“Those are the same hardworking business owners and drivers we serve every day through our technology,” he said. Supporting WAA “felt like a natural fit, a way for us to give back, to say thank you, and to stand alongside both our customers and the families of those who’ve served.”

Linxup also brings its team members into the experience. Employees and their families will volunteer on Wreaths Across America Day, December 13, at Jefferson Barracks in St. Louis and Forest Lawn West in Charlotte, two communities where many team members live and work.

And something Bari noted with a lot of pride: “We’re proud to be a U.S.-based company. Everything is handled in-house, no outsourcing, and that’s really important to us.”

Curious what makes a Veteran's Wreath? Watch below:

How Small Fleets Can Get Involved

Thinking about joining the mission for the first time but not sure where to begin? You’re not alone.

With more than 5,500 participating locations, there are countless opportunities for fleets of every size to step in and make a meaningful impact.

“Each year, hundreds of carriers help deliver millions of wreaths to cemeteries nationwide, ensuring they arrive in time for remembrance ceremonies,” Bari explained.

Independent drivers and small fleets can explore open lanes or connect directly with the Wreaths Across America Transportation team to learn more about where help is still needed.

Building Stronger Community Through Service

Getting involved doesn’t just support a mission, it strengthens the entire trucking community.

“Initiatives like Wreaths Across America help bring the trucking and fleet community together in a meaningful way,” Bari said. When fleets collaborate toward a shared purpose, it creates camaraderie, encourages relationship-building, and opens doors for networking that lasts well beyond the holiday season.

Drivers and business owners feel connected to something bigger than their individual operations, and companies have the opportunity to bond with peers, customers, and local communities all while giving back in a way that resonates deeply across the industry.

If your fleet has ever thought about joining the effort, this may just be the year to jump in. The mission is powerful, the impact is lasting, and as Bari reminded us, every single truck matters.