Auburn Hills, Mich., Mar 08, 2005 -Building upon its 60-year heritage and role in U.S. history, the Jeep® 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 nation