CHICAGO, May 25, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As Memorial Day weekend kicks-off, Country music superstar Tim McGraw teamed up with Outback Steakhouse® and Operation Homefront to surprise ten families from across the country that have a long family history of military service at a lunch at a local Outback in Chicago. Surprise guest, McGraw, thanked the families for their dedication to the military while guests from all generations shared their personal stories about a family member that inspired them to serve. The event was part of Outback's ongoing support of the military and their families.
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"It is always an honor to spend time with our armed forces, and it was a privilege to be part of today's lunch at Outback Steakhouse," said Tim McGraw. "Like all of our honorees today, I come from a military family with multiple generations who have served, and I understand the commitment, dedication and sacrifice it takes to serve our country."
Operation Homefront, the national non-profit that provides emergency financial and other assistance to the families of our service members and wounded veterans, worked with Outback to identify active and retired service members and invited them to Chicago for a special experience to pay tribute to their families' service. The honorees knew they'd be treated to lunch, but McGraw's appearance was a surprise. The military service members who attended the event along with their families included:
- Isa McIntyre- Bethesda, MD
- James Van Thach- Bellerose Manor, NY
- John Wiernasz- Spooner, WI
- Thomas English- Williamston, MI
- Michael Welch- Yankton, SD
- Linda Brashears- Romeoville, IL
- Mitchell Nihart- Elkhart, IN
- Sonja Martin- Highland Park, IL
- Scott Williams- Channahon, IL
- Kyle Radke- Elgin, IL
"As we take time this Memorial Day to remember those who've given their lives in service to our nation, we also wanted to honor families who have a long-standing history of military service," said Outback Steakhouse Chief Marketing Officer, Mike Kappitt. "Outback Steakhouse is dedicated to supporting our troops and Operation Homefront's mission, and we were excited to work with our friend, Tim McGraw, to help organize this special event for these inspiring military families."
As part of its on-going commitment to supporting U.S. military personnel, Outback Steakhouse will continue to honor our heroes with a Military Mates 10% off discount Memorial Day – July 4th, 2013.
"We are thrilled to be involved in this unique event that honor military families with generations of selfless service members," said Amy Palmer, Chief Programs and Field Operations Officer for Operation Homefront. "Outback Steakhouse and Tim McGraw have been great partners who share our commitment to the troops, and we're always happy to have an opportunity to work together in support of our armed services."
Outback began its partnership with Operation Homefront more than three years ago to enhance its support to our nation's troops. Since 2010, Outback has donated over two million dollars to support Operation Homefront.
About Outback Steakhouse
Outback Steakhouse was voted #1 Best Steak in the 2012 Zagat Survey® of National Full-Service Restaurant Chains for the third consecutive year. Outback Steakhouse starts fresh every day to create the flavors that our mates crave. Best known for grilled steaks, chicken and seafood, Outback also offers a wide variety of crisp salads and freshly made soups and sides. New creations and grilled classics are made from scratch daily using only the highest quality ingredients sourced from around the world. For more information, please visit www.outback.com or http://www.facebook.com/outback.
About Operation Homefront
A national nonprofit, Operation Homefront leads more than 6,500 volunteers with nationwide presence who provide emergency and other financial assistance to the families of service members and wounded warriors. Operation Homefront has met more than 741,000 needs of military families since its inception in 2002. A four-star rated charity by watchdog Charity Navigator, nationally, 94 percent of total revenue donated to Operation Homefront goes directly to programs that provide support to our military families. For more information, go to www.OperationHomefront.net.
