In recognition of National Military Appreciation Month and the upcoming Memorial Day holiday, Pahrump Valley Auto Plaza is joining Buick, Pontiac and GMC dealerships across the country in an effort to help Americans say "thank you" to members of our military and their families.

During May, the "A Million Thanks" program hopes to collect a million individual thank you cards and notes that will be sent to active duty soldiers, sailors and Marines in the coming weeks.

"Last year's program really touched our hearts, but we felt that we could do even more this year," said Mike Benedetto, general manager. "We've continued to ask more and more from our active service members, as well as those who have already completed their service to our country. 'A Million Thanks' is a very simple, heartfelt way for every American to express their appreciation for those who risk their lives to protect us all."

A collection box for individual messages will be available at Pahrump Valley Auto Plaza, located at 2060 E. Charleston Park. A large card will also be displayed at the dealership for personal messages and signatures.

After the notes have been collected, they will be delivered through the A Million Thanks organization, which was founded by California teenager Shauna Fleming, this year's spokesperson for National Military Appreciation Month.