America Supports You: Chrysler Donates to MacArthur Memorial

American Forces Press Service

May 23, 2008 - The Chrysler Foundation announced the donation of $100,000 to the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Foundation's 5 Star Campaign in Norfolk, Va., today. In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, Chrysler's gifts promote the foundation's campaign for the modernization and expansion of the MacArthur Memorial.

"In keeping with Chrysler's tradition of support for the U.S. military and the courageous men and women who defend this great country, the company and our foundation are proud to contribute to the MacArthur Memorial," said Bob Nardelli, the automaker's chairman and chief executive officer. "We want to make sure that future generations understand General MacArthur's ideals of 'duty, honor and country,' and appreciate the heroic sacrifices made by so many who have and continue to serve in the United States armed forces."

In addition, Chrysler donated a fully refurbished, operational World War Two Jeep to the foundation.

Established in 1962, the Gen. Douglas MacArthur Foundation commemorates the life and achievements of General of the Army Douglas MacArthur, particularly as they relate to his enduring values and their relevance to future generations.

The foundation supports the MacArthur Memorial and its special historical exhibits and events, and offers training courses for officers from each of the armed services. The foundation also annually honors Army officers through its MacArthur Leadership Awards, which are presented at the Pentagon.

"On behalf of all the directors and members of the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation, we are delighted to accept these generous gifts from the Chrysler Foundation," Arthur Diamonstein, the MacArthur Foundation's chairman, said. "This partnership reinforces our mutual objectives of preserving and presenting the legacy of the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces."

The Chrysler Foundation's donation to the MacArthur Memorial will expand the memorial's education capabilities. The new facility will triple the changing exhibit space, add a sophisticated multimedia theater, and will provide a "great hall" for visitor orientation.

"The gesture of kindness from one of the world's most prestigious and highly respected companies sends a clear message to corporate America that the 5 Star Campaign to preserve General MacArthur's enduring values of duty, honor and country is worthy of support," said Paul Fraim, Norfolk's mayor.

At the beginning of May, Chrysler implemented a month-long series of activities as part of its tribute to Military Appreciation Month. In conjunction with today's donation to the MacArthur Memorial 5 Star Campaign, employees at the company's Michigan headquarters will hold a Memorial Day remembrance ceremony honoring those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the U.S. armed forces.

As part of the series, Nardelli announced on May 19 that the Chrysler Foundation contributed $250,000 to the Pentagon Memorial Fund. The fund is responsible for building the Pentagon Memorial, scheduled to be dedicated in September, to honor the 184 victims who lost their lives at the Pentagon on Sept. 11, 2001, including Flight 77 passengers and crew, and military and civilian Pentagon employees.

Chrysler kicked off Military Appreciation Month on May 5 by honoring those employees who have been called to active military duty with a Blue Star Service Flag ceremony at its Auburn Hills Technology Center. The company was honored during the ceremony with the "2008 Pro Patria" Award by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Defense Department organization.

The committee presents the Pro Patria Award to one company annually that demonstrates exceptional support for national defense by adopting personnel policies that allow employees to actively participate in the National Guard and Reserves. It also is a supporter of America Supports You, a Defense Department program that connects military members and families with support from the public and corporations.

(From a Chrysler Foundation news release.)