McLean, Va. — A Niles man has been recognized by an international organization.

The International Foodservice Distributors Association recently announced the 67 inductees for the 2019 class of the IFDA Truck Driver Hall of Fame. Among them was Donald Raabe, of Niles, with Gordon Food Service.

IFDA and its member companies have worked to promote a culture of safety as foodservice distributors deliver food and supplies to more than the one million professional kitchens across North America, officials said.  This annual program casts a spotlight on the industry’s top drivers for their outstanding records of service, safety and skill.

There are more than 130,000 foodservice distribution drivers currently on the road, but only those with the best safety records and longevity of service qualify for the IFDA Truck Driver Hall of Fame. To be eligible, the driver must have at least 25 years of employment with an IFDA member company with no chargeable accidents and may not have any moving violations within the last five years.

“The foodservice distribution industry has a tradition of excellent and safe drivers, but these professionals are truly exceptional,” said Mark S. Allen, president and CEO of IFDA. “We are grateful to have skilled drivers of this caliber in our industry, ensuring a safe and efficient food supply for professional kitchens across the country.”

The 2019 class was honored at the IFDA Distribution Solutions Conference Tuesday morning at the Orange County Convention Center in Orlando, Florida.