Nissan North America, Inc will donate $125,000 to help the USO and Armed Forces Entertainment bring a special star-studded entertainment tour to US servicemen and women overseas this holiday season.
"Nissan is proud to be part of the USO's effort to bring a piece of America to the brave men and women in uniform who risk their lives for our country every day," said Nissan's Gary Frigo. "We especially wanted to be part of this particular tour because it reaches those directly in harm's way, at a time when loved ones are missed the most."
"For more than 60 years, the USO has proudly presented quality celebrity entertainment to our men and women in uniform and their families overseas. This is an especially meaningful war for Americans to demonstrate their appreciation for those serving in the CentCom AOR this holiday season," said USO President General John H. Tilelli, Jr.
Nissan's gift to the USO was made possible by country music star, Vince Gill, whose appearance at a Nissan event was cancelled in the wake of September 11. Gill suggested his fee be used to help the nation respond to the tragedy.
Nissan's sponsorship of the USO tour is part of its effort to help the U.S. respond to the events of September 11. For its employees, Nissan has established a Supplemental Military Pay Program to assist those called to duty. To assist broader U.S. relief efforts, Nissan donated a total of $1 million to help support other causes and has matched all employee contributions to these funds. To date, Nissan has contributed an additional $337,000 in direct and matching contributions from its employees.
"Corporate citizenship is important to Nissan and the thousands of Americans who work for our plants, offices and dealerships" Frigo added. "We are pleased to play a dynamic role in helping bring the spirit of the holidays to our troops overseas."
