DHL Provides Transportation to the Middle East to Lift Spirits of US Troops Overseas

”Pizzas for Patriots” Initiative to Support U.S. Troops July Fourth Celebrations

DHL, the world’s leading express delivery and logistics company, with the support of a local Chicago-area business and community members will deliver thousands of freshly frozen pizzas to U.S. servicemen and women serving throughout Iraq in time for July Fourth Independence Day celebrations.

Retired Master Sgt. Mark Evans, resident of Elk Grove Village, Ill., organized the effort with the support of local veterans and community members. Evans collected enough donations to purchase 2000 pizzas, provided below cost by Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria of Northbrook, Illinois.

DHL flies directly to many of the U.S. bases in Iraq, and has agreed to donate its shipping services for delivery of the pizzas.

Thousands of pizza’s packaged in temperature-controlled containers will be picked up Friday, June 27, at Lou Malnati’s Pizzeria, and loaded onto a DHL vehicle. The shipment will fly from John F. Kennedy Airport in New York directly to the Middle East, with delivery to military bases just in time for July Fourth celebrations.

“U.S. troops stationed overseas overwhelmingly appreciate receiving gifts and reminders of home,” said Ret. Sgt. Mark Evans. “As a retired member of the military, I appreciate the support of the local community and DHL helping our troops stationed thousands of miles away from home to celebrate this patriotic holiday.”

DHL was the first international air express carrier to provide service to Iraq and Afghanistan following the lifting of sanctions and now operates the most extensive logistics service into these countries.

“DHL is honored to leverage its global network and transport this shipment to lift the spirits of our servicemen and women based in the Middle East,” said Adrian Watts, Managing Director U.S. Government Sales and Support for DHL Express. “It’s part of our ongoing efforts to support our troops, especially important at this time of year when we celebrate our nation’s independence and those who are helping keep us safe.”

About DHL

DHL is the global market leader of the international express and logistics industry, specializing in providing innovative and customized solutions from a single source.

DHL offers expertise in express, air and ocean freight, overland transport, contract logistic solutions as well as international mail services, combined with worldwide coverage and an in-depth understanding of local markets. DHL’s international network links more than 225 countries and territories worldwide. Some 300,000 employees, including more than 40,000 employees in the U.S., are dedicated to providing fast and reliable services that exceed customers’ expectations.

Founded in San Francisco in 1969, DHL is a Deutsche Post World Net brand. The group generated revenues of more than 63 billion euros (more than $93 billion) in 2007.

Video and photo opportunities available:

Location: Lou Malnati’s, 3685 Woodhead Drive, Northbrook, Ill 60062

Date: Friday, June 27

Time: 2:00 PM

For more information, contact the DHL USA Press Office at

(954) 888-7114 or through email at usa.pressoffice {at} dhl(.)com.

Contacts

DHL USA
Corporate Communications:
Robert Mintz, 954-888-7114
usa.pressoffice {at} dhl(.)com