As it approaches its 100th anniversary, DAV is benefiting from the fundraising efforts of another 100-year-old brand: A&W Restaurants. Together, the two organizations raised nearly $175,000 from their annual National Root Beer Float Day campaign, as well as from sales of A&W’s centennial book.

A&W restaurants nationwide gave away free Root Beer Floats on August 6, with guests encouraged to make donations to DAV. This year’s fundraising topped last year’s by 12 percent.

In June, A&W became the first American restaurant chain to turn 100. The first frosty mug of Root Beer was served in Lodi, California, at a parade honoring World War I veterans. “A&W has a long history of supporting veterans,” says A&W CEO Kevin Bazner. “With this being our centennial year, National Root Beer Float Day was extra special, and we could not be more pleased that our fundraising efforts continue to grow.” Since it began celebrating National Root Beer Float Day seven years ago, A&W has generated more than $950,000 for veterans groups.

“We are thrilled to be a part of yet another incredibly successful National Root Beer Float Day campaign and grateful for the generosity of our friends at A&W Restaurants,” adds DAV National Adjutant Marc Burgess. “The funds raised will go toward supporting America’s veterans, ensuring DAV can continue providing critical programs and services to veterans and their families at no cost.”