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The Chrysler Foundation Donates $100,000 to the MacArthur Memorial 5 Star Campaign


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Chrysler LLC Caps Military Appreciation Month with Memorial Day Weekend Kick-off Event

NORFOLK, Va., May 23 -- The Chrysler Foundation announced today the donation of $100,000 to the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation's 5 Star Campaign in Norfolk, Va. In addition, Chrysler LLC donated a fully refurbished operational World War II Jeep(R) to the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation.

In recognition of Military Appreciation Month, and in keeping with its long-standing support for the U.S. military, Chrysler's gifts promote the MacArthur Foundation's 5 Star 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, Chairman and CEO - Chrysler LLC. "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."

Established in 1962, the General Douglas MacArthur Foundation commemorates the life and achievements of General Douglas MacArthur, particularly as they relate to his enduring values of Duty, Honor, Country and their relevance to future generations. The Foundation supports the MacArthur Memorial and its special historical exhibits and events. The Foundation also offers training courses for officers from each of the armed services branches and it 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," said Arthur Diamonstein, Chairman -- General Douglas MacArthur Foundation. "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 multi-media 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, Mayor - Norfolk.

A Month of Activities for Military Appreciation Month

Chrysler LLC 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 headquarters in Auburn Hills, Mich. will hold a Memorial Day Remembrance Ceremony, honoring those that serve and have served in the United States Armed Forces.

On May 19, Bob Nardelli announced that the Chrysler Foundation contributed $250,000 to the Pentagon Memorial Fund, to honor the 184 victims that lost their lives at the Pentagon on September 11, 1001, including Flight 77 passengers and crew, and military and civilian employees.

Chrysler activities also included a campaign titled "Honoring Those Who Serve," which is comprised of three components -- Retail, Community, and Hiring:

     Under the Retail component, Chrysler is offering special incentives and
     warranties on Chrysler, Jeep(R) and Dodge products, crafted
     specifically for members of the military;
     For the Community component, Chrysler recently joined America Supports
     You (ASY), a Department of Defense program that connects nonprofit
     support groups with military people and their families. The Company is
     currently working with two ASY home front groups - The Freedom Calls
     Foundation and Operation Gratitude;

The Hiring component was announced on May 15, partnering with the Department of Defense and with Labor and Veterans Affairs to bring current and former members of the military together with the Company, Chrysler dealers and suppliers to find right career opportunities as they transition to civilian life.

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 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense organization. The Pro Patria Award is presented 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 Reserve. Now in its 54th year, The Chrysler Foundation is the primary source of charitable grants made by Chrysler. The Foundation annually supports hundreds of charitable organizations with an emphasis on community growth and enrichment, education, arts and culture, public policy, youth development and disaster relief programs throughout the United States and, increasingly, the world. The Foundation's Good Neighbor, Good Citizen(R) programs make a positive, lasting investment in local communities where our employees, customers and neighbors live.