Orlando, FL -- McLane Company has helped The Pantry, the leading independently operated convenience store chain in the southeastern United States, achieve the $1 million fundraising goal early in the "Salute Our Troops" summer-long campaign to support the military.

Through The Pantry's more than 1,600 Kangaroo Express stores across 13 states, store guests and communities have enthusiastically demonstrated support for military personnel and their families. The overwhelming response so early in the campaign is expected to inspire more donations throughout the summer. Donations support the USO, celebrating 70 years of delivering programs, entertainment and other services to the military; Wounded Warrior Project, honoring and empowering injured servicemen and women; and five state-based military support organizations that benefit soldiers and their families. The program continues through Labor Day.

"We are extremely thrilled and proud to be part of a program that is helping support our brave and committed military women and men," said Tom Sicola, vice president of marketing, McLane. "When the jeep stops at our various divisions across the country, our teammates will gather to demonstrate our support and patriotism."

For example, on Friday, July 22, The McLane Suneast Division in Kissimmee, Fla. expects 400 teammates to assemble for the "Pledge of Allegiance," listen to a teammate sing "God Bless America" and take part in the "Salute Our Troops Shout Out." McLane Suneast also plans to hand out "We Salute You Certificates" to honor the Division's 46 teammates who have served in the military.

Kangaroo Express store guests are invited to make donations and give shout-outs of praise and appreciation to the military heroes in their lives and communities by posting photos and videos on the Salute Our Troops website at www.KESalute.com. Feeding the frenzy of appreciation is the USO Salute Our Troops Jeep Tour, which deployed on Memorial Day and will complete its mission on Labor Day. A fully-restored 1952 Willys CJ-3 Jeep is touring the Southeast to honor military heroes and families along the route at Kangaroo Express locations and community events. You can view current salutes showcased on the Salute Our Troops website at www.KESalute.com.

"This summer's Salute Our Troops is an ideal campaign for Kangaroo Express and our partners to support the men and women who serve our country," said John Fisher, senior vice president of The Pantry. "We are proud to have McLane join this campaign to provide an opportunity for our store guests to thank our military for the work and sacrifices required to protect our nation and preserve our freedom."

Fans can track the next leg of the Jeep Tour on Kangaroo Express' Facebook and Twitter accounts.