The Tanger Outlet Center in Commerce is inviting the entire community to join its campaign to say “Thank You” to the brave men and women of the US military. As part of its second annual Salute the Troops campaign, Tanger is giving visitors to the center a convenient way to let our soldiers know how much the sacrifices they make for all of us are appreciated.

From now through July 6, 2008, Tanger will collect cards and letters for the troops at the Tanger Customer Service Center. Shoppers can drop off their own cards and letters or they can write their sentiments on one of the free 'thank you' cards that Tanger has available. Children can share their patriotism and support for the troops by adding their creativity on a special Salute the Troops coloring sheet.

“The courage and bravery of our young men and women serving around the world is an inspiration to all of us,” stated Stanley K. Tanger, Chairman and CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc. “They give up so much to protect our freedoms. It is important for all of us to take the time to say “Thank You” and let them know that they remain in our thoughts.”

The cards and letters being collected nationally by Tanger Outlet Centers will be shipped to US military bases around the world for our troops by Tanger’s national partner, the Armed Forces Foundation. Tanger is making a $25,000 donation to the Armed Forces Foundation to support the AFF in its important mission to promote the morale, welfare and quality of life of the United States armed forces community, including active duty military, reservists and retired personnel and their families. For more information about the Armed Forces Foundation please visit www.armedforcesfoundation.org or call (202) 547-4713.

In addition to collecting thank you cards and letters for our troops.

The Tanger Outlet Center is also planning a big celebration on July 5th from 10 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. This “Thousands of Thanks” celebration will start out with a special ceremony at 10:00 a.m. as Tanger, with the help of local dignitaries, will offer special recognition and appreciation to U.S. Troops. The keynote speaker for the ceremony will be U.S. Congressman, Paul Broun.

After the ceremony, the rest of the day will be filled with fun for the entire family. Musical entertainment will be provided by Parrot Head Paradise, a Jimmy Buffet cover band. In addition, there will be inflatable's and games for the kids. Stonewall’s BBQ, a newly opened restaurant in downtown Commerce, will be on hand serving BBQ sandwiches with all proceeds to benefit the Armed Forces foundation.