Throughout the month of May, McDonald’s will be providing a “Taste of Home” to the men and women of the armed forces serving across the world. Family and friends of troops will have the chance to send a greeting card and personalized message through: “http://www.ShareaTasteofHome.com”>www.ShareaTasteofHome.com, a McDonald’s Web site.

Fred Frederic, a Cape Coral McDonald’s owner, was instrumental in launching the Web site locally. As a former non-commissioned officer in the Marine Corps, Frederic knows the importance of supporting troops overseas.

“Many moons ago, I was in the Marine Corps and I am a very staunch believer in the military, because I believe the military is keeping our country safe,” Frederic said. “We want to make sure that the troops know we appreciate what they’re doing to keep us safe.“

May is National Military Appreciation Month, which was designated by Congress to provide a period encompassing the history and recognition of the armed services. Currently there are more than 100,000 active duty military personnel, based in Florida, serving their country.

According to NMAM Web site literature, the month “allows Americans to educate each generation on the historical impact of our military through the participation of the community with those who serve encouraging patriotism and love for America.“

With Memorial Day fast approaching, Frederic wants to raise awareness of the sacrifices made on a daily basis by those serving in the armed forces.

“I feel that people don’t have the, kind of, top awareness of what they (the military) do, how they keep our country safe,” Frederic said. “What the Marine Corps teaches you is discipline, teamwork, doing the right thing and being as strong as we can be as a unit. McDonald’s is the same — you learn team work and to do what is necessary.”

Each card created at the Web site will be printed and shipped by June 1 at no cost to the sender. Choose from one of four different cards, read messages left by others and, as an added bonus, there is a coupon to try McDonald’s new chicken sandwich.

Frederic said the Web site is easy to use.

“Basically, if they follow the prompts, they can really get in tune with how much McDonald’s really supports the backbone of America,” he said.

“These soldiers are protecting us and we need to recognize their tremendous efforts,” Frederic added.

For more information or to send a personalized message to a member of the armed forces, visit: www.shareatasteofhome.com.