The National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing (NASCAR) announced today its support for the "America Supports You" program, an ongoing nationwide effort to communicate America's admiration to the men and women of the Armed Forces.  The program, launched by the U.S. Department of Defense last year, recognizes citizens' support for our military men and women and serves as a vehicle to communicate that appreciation to members of our Armed Forces at home and abroad.

NASCAR will seek to raise awareness of the program and drive fans to the website at www.americasupportsyou.mil beginning with this weekend's Pepsi 400 at Daytona International Speedway.

"The 'America Supports You' campaign gives every American the opportunity to reach out to those in the military serving our country and protecting our freedoms," said NASCAR President Mike Helton.  "Taking a moment to thank the troops and let them know how much they mean to our country is easy to do by going to the AmericaSupportsYou.mil website."

"The Department of Defense is grateful for NASCAR's continued support of the troops," said Allison Barber, deputy assistant secretary of defense.  NASCAR's efforts will be a positive reminder to our deployed men and women, and their families back home, that they have the continued support of the American people."

NASCAR is working with the industry to help raise awareness about the effort including signage at tracks, airing of public service announcements on Nextel Vision, decals on race cars, outreach to media outlets and public relations support.

Several companies and sports organizations that have joined the "America Supports You" campaign including the PGA Tour, Indianapolis Motor Speedway, Lowe's, Anheuser- Busch, and McDonald's.