NOVEMBER 11, 2008

Michigan motorists can show their support for members of the U.S. armed forces with the new Support Our Troops plate that's on sale now, Secretary of State Terri Lynn Land announced today.

Ready in time for Veterans Day, the state's newest fundraising plate gives $25 for each plate sold to the Florida-based nonprofit group, Support Our Troops, which sends care packages to troops stationed overseas.

"The men and women of America's armed forces stepped forward when their country needed them so it's wonderful to offer the opportunity to be there for members of the military with this new license plate," Land said. "I'm pleased that Michigan residents now have the opportunity to show their appreciation and support."

The plate costs $35 in addition to the vehicle's registration fee, which is based on the manufacturer's suggested retail price. Plate renewals are $10 each year. Collector plates also are available for $35, $25 of which goes to the organization.

Michigan joins about two dozen states in offering a Support Our Troops plate. The Support Our Troops organization worked with the Michigan Legislature to approve the plate and the Secretary of State's Office on its design.

The plate features the attractive logo of the Support Our Troops organization, which has a military member standing with a child and an American flag as the background.

Michigan also offers its veterans 25 plates that highlight their service in the military, and in individual wars and conflicts such as World War II, the Vietnam War and the Somalia conflict. The department earlier this year began selling plates that commemorate service in Iraq and Afghanistan, and also now allows people to personalize their veteran plates.

Besides the Support Our Troops plate, motorists can choose from a number of fundraising plates that support Michigan's public universities and special causes such as protecting wildlife habitat.

For more information about Secretary of State license plate options, visit the License Plate Store online at www.Michigan.gov/sos. Visit www.SupportOurTroops.org for more information about the organization.