Little Caesar Enterprises Inc. today will open another location under the Little Caesars Veterans Program, as former United States Air Force Lieutenant Colonel, Joseph Alleca, opens his doors for business at 12477 Timberland Blvd., in Keller, Texas.

“Through our Little Caesars pizza restaurant, we can offer area residents a high quality product at a great value with outstanding convenience,” says Alleca. “We are proud to be part of a well-known brand that emphasizes community involvement and giving back and look forward to becoming active members of the Keller and Fort Worth community.”

Entering the U.S. Air Force in 1976, Alleca served as a meteorologist and participated in several tours of duty including Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Retiring in 1996, he transitioned to civilian life as an IT software developer. While on vacation in Italy, Alleca met a Little Caesars franchisee who introduced him to the idea of owning his own pizza restaurant. Impressed with the business model and support system the organization had in place, Alleca began researching Little Caesars.

“I have always wanted to own my own business and after learning more about Little Caesars, I knew it was the right fit for me,” says Alleca. “I was really encouraged by the support they offer and the dedication that they have to providing opportunities to veterans.”

The Little Caesars Veterans Program was created in 2006 to thank veterans for their service, and provide them with career opportunities when they transition to civilian life or seek a career change. Honorably discharged service-disabled veterans who qualify as Little Caesars franchisees, such as Alleca, are eligible for a benefit of up to approximately $68,000. Honorably discharged veterans who qualify as Little Caesars franchisees, are eligible for a benefit of up to $10,000.

“The skills Joseph learned in the military, such as teamwork, dedication and a familiarity with processes, will help him become an effective Little Caesars franchisee,” says David Scrivano, president, Little Caesar Enterprises Inc. ”

Since launching on Veterans Day 2006, interest has remained high for the Little Caesars Veterans Program. Currently, 30 veterans have been approved to become Little Caesars franchisees and more than 2,000 inquiries have been made about the program. Several more U.S. military veterans are expected to open stores under the program in the coming months.