Department of Defense Kicks Off Their 2008 Campaign

The Department of Defense (DoD) kicked off their 2008 Combined Federal Campaign of the National Capital Area (CFCNCA) fund drive this afternoon at the Pentagon. Deputy Secretary of Defense and DoD Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) Vice Chair Gordon England hosted the event, and challenged DoD employees to not only meet, but exceed their goal of $13.3 million.

"Over the years, CFC has become the world's largest and most successful annual workplace charity campaign" said Deputy Secretary England. "It continues to be a great way to help others and, in particular, the men and women who wear the cloth of our nation and their families".

Admiral Thad Allen, Commandant of the United States Coast Guard and this year's CFC Honorary Chair also addressed the audience. "You work every day to defend our freedom", said Admiral Allen. "Through all that, one of the ways that your stars shine brightest is when you are helping those truly in need."

Each of the 23 DoD services and defense agencies were present and posed for pictures in front of signs that showed their group's individual goals.

"You have a strong culture of giving here, and it seems every year DoD exceeds its CFC goal by 15-25 percent" said Allen. "We are grateful for that and look forward to similar success this year. Just like we count on you every night we put our head on the pillow, people in need around the corner and around the world will count on your participation in the CFC".