If you know A American Container, you know David Cray.
This year marks 25 years since Dave first got behind the wheel as our very first truck driver—and he’s been an essential part of the team ever since.
Originally from the coast of New Jersey, Dave grew up catching waves on the Jersey Shore. Long before he ever set foot in a freight yard, he was traveling the country with—you guessed it—snakes. (Yes, we have a picture to prove it.) That free-spirited start set the tone for what would become a life full of stories, open roads, and quiet reliability.
If you’ve ever seen him on the job, chances are he’s doing what he’s always done: showing up early, getting it done right, and helping everyone around him do the same.
The Original Driver—Still the Go-To
Dave didn’t just join A American—he helped build it. He was our very first truck driver, navigating routes all over Florida before GPS and route-optimizing apps were a thing (and even after, it took a while to convince him to use a GPS and not print out directions) No matter the weather, schedule, or last-minute change, Dave’s always found a way to get it done.
Over the years, he’s done far more than haul containers. He’s personally trained every single truck driver we’ve ever had, teaching by example what it means to be consistent, dependable, and respectful on the road. If you’ve had a container delivered by A American, odds are you’ve benefited from Dave’s influence—even if he wasn’t the one behind the wheel that day.
Classic Dave, On and Off the Clock
When he’s not on the road, Dave keeps it simple. He’s a Harley-Davidson guy, through and through. If you ever catch him outside of work, odds are he’s wearing a black tee or a Harley shirt with blue jeans and work boots. (I have known Dave for 21 years, and the only time I have ever seen him sporting a different outfit is at church)
Not Just Team—He’s Family
We often talk about being a family business—and Dave is a reminder that for some of us, that’s literal. As our CEO’s cousin, Dave has been here since day one, shaping what this company looks and feels like from the ground up.
On a personal note— Growing up, some of my favorite days were the ones I got to spend riding shotgun in Dave’s truck. During elementary school breaks, he’d let me tag along on his routes. He’d always have a packed lunch in his red-and-white Coleman lunchbox, and we’d spend the drive listening to classic rock or hearing stories from his past lives.
Here’s a Picture of David holding our current engineer, Jordan Payne!
Here’s to Dave
After 25 years, David Cray isn’t just our most experienced driver—he’s a legend in the yard and on the road. His legacy lives in every driver he’s trained, every customer he’s served, and every mile he’s put behind him.
Dave, we appreciate everything you’ve done—and everything you continue to do.
Here’s to your 25 years of dedication, and to many more ahead.
