MCFARLAND SAYS 'THANK YOU' IN LETTER TO MILITARY CUSTOMERS
This Memorial Day doesn't feel like any I've ever experienced. As a Marine veteran, I typically honor the fallen by attending parades in my hometown and gathering with loved ones to remember. While the current pandemic may have changed the way we unite to reflect, I'm proud to be part of a company that values military service and takes time to honor and mourn our fallen heroes.
On Memorial Day and every day, Lowe's will continue our unwavering gratitude for those who have fallen, those who have served, and those who continue to protect our freedom.
Before dawn today, store teams assembled memorials in the parking space we have reserved for our veterans. These are intended to offer a moment of reflection and a reminder of all we have lost.
In our stores, we will participate in the National Moment of Remembrance at 3 p.m. local time. An overhead announcement will invite customers to participate.
In addition to these tributes from our associates, we have also pledged more than $4.5 million to help make a difference in the lives of our active duty or retired service members and their families, as well as the loved ones of those who have fallen, through partnerships with some of the most outstanding military organizations in the country to offer critical repairs and safe housing options as well as job opportunities for our veterans and those on active duty. We're also donating gift cards for Gold Star families to support at-home DIY projects and care packages to congratulate high school graduates of the Gary Sinise Foundation's Snowball Express, which supports the children of fallen military heroes.
Every day, service members who were injured on active duty are struggling to live in their own homes safely. maybe their new normal requires a wheelchair, but their home is a second-floor apartment. Maybe their home requires critical repairs and maintenance they cannot complete themselves.
Every day, military families are planning another move, which means worrying about housing and finding a job for the family member making the move, too.
Lowe's has always been here for our military communities when you need us most, and today, we remember those who have fallen.
We thank you, and all your loved ones, for your service.
Sincerely,
Joe McFarland, Marine and Desert Shield/Storm Veteran
Lowe's EVP of Stores