Spanier Bus Service in St. Cloud Earns Minnesota American Legion’s Employer of Veterans Award

(KNSI) – Spanier Bus Service in St. Cloud has been recognized by the American Legion Department of Minnesota as a 2026 winner of the Employer of Veterans Award for supporting veterans transitioning into civilian life.

Spanier was recognized in the medium-sized company category, which covers businesses with 51 to 200 employees. Veterans make up 10% of Spanier’s workforce, filling both full- and part-time roles including bus drivers, mechanics and administrative positions. The company has served the St. Cloud community and school district for nearly 70 years.

Silver Star Post 428 in Waite Park nominated Spanier for the honor. The company officially received the award at the American Legion’s State Convention, held July 9th through the 11th in Willmar.

Spanier CEO Tom Nightingale said the recognition reflects the company’s broader mission. “We’re honored to do our part in supporting military veterans following their service and helping them transition to civilian life,” Nightingale said. “Serving our communities is one of our core principles, and that means supporting our teammates and empowering them to provide the service, integrity and safety our schools deserve.”

Nationally, nearly 675,000 military veterans work in the transportation and utilities sector, according to the Bureau of Transportation Statistics.

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