SAN DIEGO, Calif. (May 6, 2010) – In honor of National Military Appreciation Month this June, participating PostalAnnex+, Handle With Care Packaging Store and Sunshine Pack & Ship stores are providing free postage for letters or greeting cards mailed to a U.S. military address worldwide – from now through June 14, Flag Day.

National Military Appreciation Month was established by the U.S. Congress to celebrate the history and traditions of all of the nation's armed services and to recognize the achievements of all who serve or have served. According to the campaign's Web site, the awareness month allows each generation of Americans to educate the next about the historical impact of the military on the country and to celebrate patriotism and love for America in their local communities.

"This campaign is especially close to our hearts because we have customers who are active military, veterans, and close friends of military families. In addition, we are a member of the International Franchise Association's VetFran program, which helps veterans open their own small businesses," said Steve Goble, vice president of marketing communications for Annex Brands, franchisor of the PostalAnnex+, Handle With Care Packaging Store and Sunshine Pack & Ship brands. "Assisting over 1,500 military veterans to date, the VetFran program provides generous discounts on fees for new franchises." Goble added, "It is our pleasure to make this offer of free postage this month so that the family and friends of soldiers can stay connected with their loved ones who are serving our country."

"National Military Appreciation Month also provides a great opportunity for us to get the word out to military families about our partnership with VetFran," Goble continued. "We know that military veterans make very good small business owners because discipline is one of the key components in owning and operating a successful small business. Therefore, we are excited each time we see a veteran's application come through. We encourage veterans to inquire about business ownership opportunities through Annex Brands."

PostalAnnex+, Handle With Care Packaging Store and Sunshine Pack & Ship are business services centers that offer packaging and shipping, private mailbox rental, scanning and shredding, key duplication, copy services and more. For more information about Annex Brands and to find a list of services at each location, please visit http://www.annexbrands.com/. For additional information about VetFran, please visit http://www.vetfran.com/.

About Annex Brands