NATIONAL YELLOW RIBBON SALES TO BENEFIT THE USO

National retailer Burlington Coat Factory launches yellow ribbon campaign, with proceeds to directly benefit the USO (United Service Organizations.)

Burlington, NJ -- Burlington Coat Factory today announced a Military Family Support Campaign to assist military personnel and their families. Effective April 17, 2003, members of all branches of the U.S. Military with active duty status, and their immediate dependents showing valid Military Identification, will receive 10% off their total purchase at any Burlington Coat Factory store nationwide through the end of the year.

Additionally, as of May 1, 2003, customers will have the opportunity to offer their support for military families by purchasing a yellow ribbon for $1 or more at registers in Burlington Coat Factory stores. Customer donations will directly benefit the (USO) United Service Organizations, and its numerous programs established to benefit the families of military uniformed personnel.

"The USO is thrilled to be working with Burlington Coat Factory in their efforts to support U.S. military members and their families," Edward A. Powell, president of the USO said. "This effort will make a tremendous difference in the lives of the people who defend us, and ensure that they know America remembers them."

"We recognize that this is an especially difficult time for everyone with a loved one in the military. We would like to do our part to make it little easier for these families to have the things they need," says Monroe Milstein, CEO and President of Burlington Coat Factory. He adds, "We are proud to support the USO and all of the wonderful things they have been doing for military families for the past 60 years."

USO ribbons purchased with consumer donations will be displayed throughout the register area of all Burlington Coat Factory stores. The collective donation will be presented to the USO shortly following the campaign's completion on Sunday, July 27, 2003.

Since 1941, the USO has offered uniformed military personnel and their families morale lifting programs and services at home and abroad. The USO operates 121 centers around the world, serving over 5,000,000 patrons annually. The organization depends primarily on volunteer support and solely on charitable donations.

Burlington Coat Factory is one of the nations largest off-price retailers of first quality apparel, shoes and accessories for the entire family, linens and home décor, and baby clothing and merchandise. Burlington Coat Factory and its subsidiaries operate over 320 stores in 42 states.