May 27, 2004
VFW Posts and Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., sponsor nationwide flag disposal program

BENTONVILLE, Ark., May 27, 2004 - The Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) is working with Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., to provide customers a way to properly dispose of their worn American flags for the third year in a row. Beginning May 31, customers can visit any Wal-Mart store, SAM’S CLUB or Neighborhood Market and drop off their used American flag for proper disposal by participating VFW Posts.

Drop-off stations will be located inside all U.S. Wal-Mart stores, SAM’S CLUBS and Neighborhood Markets from May 31 through June 14. The flags will be collected by participating VFW Posts and disposed of in a dignified ceremony. After dropping off worn flags, customers are encouraged to pick up a free brochure explaining the proper etiquette for displaying their new American flag.

"We are proud to work with participating VFW Posts across the country and offer this patriotic service to our customers," said Betsy Reithemeyer, vice president of corporate affairs for Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., and executive director of the Wal-Mart/SAM’S CLUB Foundation. "There are very specific procedures for properly displaying and disposing of the American flag, and our customers can feel confident that their worn American flags will be retired with respect and disposed of properly by the VFW."

"The VFW is pleased to share in this patriotic endeavor with Wal-Mart," said VFW National Commander-in-Chief Edward S. Banas Sr. "A priority of all Americans is to ensure our national symbol receives the respect and dignity it deserves. This is a great way to do just that!"

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., operates Wal-Mart Stores, Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets and SAM’S CLUBS in all fifty states. Internationally, the company operates in Puerto Rico, Canada, China, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, United Kingdom, Argentina and South Korea. The company’s securities are listed on the New York and Pacific stock exchanges under the symbol WMT. Last year, Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., contributed more than $150 million to support communities and local non-profit organizations. Customers and associates raised an additional $70 million at stores and clubs.