Golden Corral Restaurants Salute America’s Heroes with Free Dinner on Military Appreciation Monday

(BUSINESS WIRE)--On Monday, Nov. 16, Golden Corral will thank thousands of active-duty and former United States Military personnel for their service with a free dinner buffet and beverage, while raising donations for the Disabled American Veterans (DAV). A tradition started nine years ago to celebrate our nation’s heroes, Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday has served more than two million complimentary meals to military personnel and generated nearly $3.3 million in contributions for state and local DAV chapters.

“We have 45,000 employees in 485 restaurants nationwide who are very passionate about supporting our military service men and women, and look forward to supporting Military Appreciation Monday annually,” said Ted Fowler, president and chief executive officer of Golden Corral. “While the current economy is challenging, we remain committed to recognizing the military through this program and look forward to reaching 2.5 million meals served and $4 million raised this year.”

Golden Corral has enlisted Gary Sinise, celebrated actor/director, Bo Derek, pop icon and actress, and Collective Soul, the platinum award-winning band, to record public service announcements for Military Appreciation Monday. Sinise, Derek and Collective Soul are all actively involved in supporting active-duty and retired military personnel through a variety of organizations and initiatives including tours to military installations overseas.

“This is the fifth year I’ve had the pleasure to partner with Golden Corral in supporting our troops, past and present, through Military Appreciation Monday,” said Sinise. “The number of meals given away and amount of money donated in the past eight years really distinguishes Golden Corral’s commitment to the military. I’m proud and happy to help raise awareness for Golden Corral’s Military Appreciation Monday.”

Golden Corral will serve free dinner buffets with beverage from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. on Nov. 16 to any person who is or has served in a United States Military branch, including the National Guard and Reserves – identification is not required. State and local DAV representatives will be on-site at all Golden Corral locations coordinating the collection of donations from customers. While only current and former military qualify for the free meal, everyone is encouraged to come out and show support for our veterans. For more information on Military Appreciation Monday, please visit http://www.goldencorral.com/military/ or become a fan on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/home.php#/GCMilitaryAppreciation?ref=nf.

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Six Flags Over Georgia Salutes Military Personnel

Six Flags Friends is proud to honor the men and women who are currently serving with Military Appreciation Days presented by the Navy Federal Credit Union and Chrysler Group LLC. Active members of the military can present their current military identification cards at any of the Six Flags Over Georgia ticket windows on September 19, 20, 26 or 27 (one day only, see below for schedule) and receive complimentary admission for themselves and up to two dependants.

Only current active U.S. military personnel will receive admission on the date corresponding with their branch of the military. Reservists members of the military also qualify (must have military ID).

Sept 19 – Air Force: Park open 10:00a.m. to 8:00p.m.
Sept 20 – Navy & Coast Guard: Park open 10:30a.m. to 7:00p.m.
Sept 26 – Army: Park open 10:00a.m. to 8:00p.m.
Sept 27 – Marines: Park open 10:30a.m. to 7:00p.m.

*If an individual serving in the military is deployed during these dates, their spouse and two dependants may receive complimentary admission on the corresponding date. The spouse must present a current military identification card.

If current members of the military need to purchase additional tickets, they may do so at a rate 50 percent less than the main–gate admission price.

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Ambassador Praises Task Force for Contributions in Iraq

The U.S. ambassador to Iraq met with soldiers and leaders of Task Force Pathfinder here [Contingency Operating Base Adder, Iraq] July 12 to thank them for their contributions and to discuss military support of provincial reconstruction teams in Iraq.

"What we're seeing is a crucial year, and it's good to see the military working with the [provincial reconstruction teams]," Christopher R. Hill said.

The ambassador met with Army Lt. Col. Michael Eastman, commander of Task Force Pathfinder, 2nd Battalion, 29th Field Artillery Regiment. The battalion provides support to reconstruction teams in Iraq's Dhi Qar, Maysan and Muthanna provinces.

"We try to meet the central needs of each area, and every day we're making progress," said Eastman, also the deputy commander for civil capacity for 1st Armored Division's 4th Brigade.

The ambassador also met with task force soldiers and discussed the battalion's activities.

Hill acknowledged the challenges of leading the way in efforts to advise and assist. "Not only are you working with the State Department, there are about 10 other civilian agencies working out there," he said. "Coming together can be tough; it's a bit like herding cats."

Communication is key, said Army Sgt. 1st Class Robert J. Smith Jr., a cavalry scout working with a military movement team in support of the Muthanna Provincial Reconstruction Team. "We have to communicate constantly to make sure we're not in each other's way."

Hill was told about the many roles the task force soldiers take on in support of the reconstruction teams. "Soldiers are stronger and smarter than any time in the Army's 233-year history," he said. "Intelligence and adaptability are exactly what's required on today's battlefield."

The Commander's Emergency Response Program has been particularly effective, Hill noted. Program funds are applied to water, agriculture, electricity, rule of law, governance and other essential service projects requested by the Iraqi government.

"I expect to see a [program] surge," he said.

Building Iraq's economic power and helping the population become self-sustaining will win out in the end over traditional military actions, Hill said.

New infrastructure -- with an educated and entrepreneurial population -- is needed to create an environment that is peaceful and free of terrorism, he said.

"There's a cycle. We've been at this for almost seven years and people are ready to see an end [to violence]," Hill said. "I appreciate what you're doing. You're a real credit to those who want to see a secure, economically stable Iraq."

(author Army Sgt. Mark Miranda serves in the 1st Armored Division's 4th Brigade Combat Team.)
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