FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., March 7—McDonald’s announced a partnership today with America Supports You, a U.S. Department of Defense program supporting the men and women of the Armed Forces. McDonald’s with the U.S. Department of Defense will promote America Supports You through McDonald’s restaurants and employees as part of the National Salute to America’s Heroes program.
America Supports You is a nationwide program supporting the Armed Forces. Since its launch in November 2004, hundreds of thousands of Americans have logged onto the AmericaSupportsYou.mil website to register the activities and projects in their communities that show their support for America’s Armed Forces. Every person who registers on the site receives an America Supports You dog tag to show his or her support.
The National Salute to America’s Heroes program will carry through the month of November 2005, honoring local community heroes.
As one of the first major corporate partners of America Supports You, McDonald’s will support the program through advertising and marketing efforts during National Military Appreciation Month in May. McDonald’s is also exploring opportunities to incorporate America Supports You into Fleet Week USA and the McDonald’s Air & Sea Show events April 25–May 1, 2005 in
Fort Lauderdale.
“We are thrilled that the America Supports You message will reach so many through the support of McDonald’s,” says Allison Barber, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Internal Communications and Public Liaison. “McDonald’s efforts will help make America Supports You part of our national lexicon, providing a tremendous morale boost not just for those serving overseas, but for their families as well.”
For the fourth consecutive year, the National Salute to America’s Heroes program will honor America’s brave service men and women through the sponsorship of Fleet Week USA and the McDonald’s Air & Sea Show along with local programs nationwide. This year, McDonald’s recognition has evolved to salute all of those who serve their country and community including law enforcement, firefighters, EMS, healthcare providers, teachers and volunteers.