Jeep(R) Brand Sponsors Initiative to Help Re-Teach Americans the National Anthem

Jeep(R) Brand Sponsors Initiative to Help Re-Teach Americans the National Anthem

* Three-year initiative focuses attention on the "The Star-Spangled Banner" * National Presenting Sponsor role harmonious fit with Jeep brand heritage * Mrs. Laura Bush to serve as Honorary Chairperson

AUBURN HILLS, Mich., March 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Building upon its 60-year heritage and role in U.S. history, the Jeep(R) brand signs on as the National Presenting Sponsor of a new initiative, launching Thursday, March 10 in Washington, D.C., to teach Americans the words and significance of "The Star-Spangled Banner."

The "National Anthem Project: Restoring America's Voice" is a three-year national education initiative created by MENC: National Association for Music Education after a Harris Poll indicated that two out of three Americans don't know the words to "The Star-Spangled Banner." Mrs. Laura Bush serves as Honorary Chairperson.

"Few brands symbolize freedom and patriotism like the Jeep brand, and we are excited about the opportunity to be part of the National Anthem Project and to join MENC in this mission to restore America's voice," said Dieter Zetsche, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Chrysler Group.

The project to unite the country -- from school age children to adults -- with renewed knowledge and appreciation of the National Anthem launches on the west lawn of the U.S. Capitol March 10 with live performances by hundreds of children, the Oak Ridge Boys, and the "President's Own" U.S. Marine Band. In addition, more than six million children, teachers and music supporters will participate in the World's Largest Concert, featuring American patriotic songs as well as other popular tunes. The concert will air across the United States and abroad via PBS stations and the Armed Forces Network.

As National Presenting Sponsor, over the next three years, the Jeep brand will be featured in the multi-faceted National Anthem Project initiative including education outreach in schools across the country, special performances and alliances with professional sporting events, and an extensive mobile marketing tour stopping in cities nationwide.

Freedom, adventure, authenticity, mastery and the capability to go anywhere are the hallmarks of the Jeep brand worldwide. It is a reputation earned during more than six decades of sport-utility vehicle leadership, and the Jeep brand's role in American history. The launch of the award-winning 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, Jeep Liberty CRD (Common Rail Diesel) and Jeep Wrangler Unlimited last year signaled the expansion of the Jeep brand. Later this year, the Jeep brand will continue to grow with the introduction of the all-new Jeep Commander, the first Jeep vehicle with three-rows of seats.

Jeep Trail Rated communicates the legendary Jeep capability that is designed into every Jeep 4x4. As the brand's lineup expands, Jeep branded vehicles will continue to be what they have always been -- the most capable.

Jeep Liberty and Wrangler are manufactured in Toledo, Ohio, and Jeep Grand Cherokee is produced in Detroit, Mich., and Graz, Austria.

Source: Chrysler Group

CONTACT: Carrie McElwee, +1-248-512-2664, cm63@daimlerchrysler.com , or Eileen Wunderlich, +1-248-512-0332, ew48@daimlerchrysler.com , both of Chrysler Group

Web site: http://www.media.daimlerchrysler.com/ http://www.daimlerchrysler.com/

NOTE TO EDITORS: Additional information and news from DaimlerChrysler is available on the Internet at: http://www.media.daimlerchrysler.com .

------- Profile: Ent