Clovis Applebee’s Thanks Neighborhood Veterans and Active Duty Military With a Free Meal On Veteran’s Day

Once again, Applebee’s will thank our nation’s veterans and active duty military by inviting them to the Clovis Applebee’s located at 98 Shaw Ave. for a free meal on Veterans Day, Thursday, Nov. 11, 2010. Last year, Applebee’s served more than one million military men and women and expects that number to be even higher this year. The company’s appreciation efforts last year were the largest of its kind to give back to the communities where Applebee’s restaurants are located nationwide.

Gala Corporation, which owns and operates 18 Applebee’s throughout California, will offer complimentary entrées to active and retired military service men and women all day if they show proof of military service and will host a 24” x 36” framed “Wall of Thanks,” where guests can sign their name and express their gratitude to our troops. During their time at Applebee’s, guests will also have the chance to write a personal letter of thanks to deployed soldiers that will be mailed out by the company.

“It’s an honor to serve our veterans and active duty military on this national day of respect and remembrance,” said Stacy Griffis, spokeswoman for Gala Corporation. “Veterans Day at Applebee’s has become a wonderful opportunity to thank our military personnel while enjoying great company and delicious food. It’s a time for us to serve those who serve our country and we’re looking forward to another successful year.”

Guests are encouraged to say thanks to veterans and active duty personnel on Applebee’s “virtual wall of honor” as well at www.facebook.com/applebees or www.applebees.com.

Applebee’s new Veterans Day menu will offer some of its signature and favorite items, including the:

• 7 oz. House Sirloin
• Bacon Cheeseburger
• Three Cheese Chicken Penne
• Chicken Tenders Platter
• Oriental Chicken Salad
• Fiesta Lime Chicken®
• Double Crunch Shrimp

Veterans and active duty military will need to provide proof of service, which includes U.S. Uniform Services Identification Card, U.S. Uniform Services Retired Identification Card, Current Leave and Earnings Statement, Veterans Organization Card, photograph in uniform or wearing uniform, DD214, Citation or Commendation. Neighborhood Applebee’s will be open 11 a.m.-midnight.  Offer is valid for Dine-in only. Traditional sides are included with the free entrees; 2 for $20, appetizers, upgraded side items or extras, beverages, desserts and gratuity are not included.

About Gala Corp.

Established in 1982 and headquartered in Orange County, Calif., Gala Corporation is one of the leading privately-owned hospitality and food service companies in the United States. From unassuming beginnings with a single property, Gala Corporation is today recognized as a first-class developer and operator of hospitality and food service assets with a customer-focused and quality-minded approach to business. Additionally, Gala Corporation provides third-party management services to multi-unit fast food and full-service restaurant companies and investment groups. Management services are available for most any brand or chain in the U.S. For more information, visit www.galacorp.com or e-mail marketing@galacorp.com.

About Applebee’s

Applebee’s (www.applebees.com) is the world’s largest casual dining chain with approximately 2,000 locations in 49 states, 16 countries and one U.S. territory. Based in Lenexa, Kan., Applebee’s takes pride in providing a welcoming, neighborhood environment where everyone can enjoy the dining experience. Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar is a DineEquity, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) brand, and is franchised and operated by Applebee’s Services, Inc. and its affiliates.

Participating Area Restaurants

2263 South Shore Center, Alameda; 4301 1st Street, Livermore; 24041 Southland Drive, Hayward; 2819 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek;  1369 Fitzgerald Drive, Pinole; 2737 Hillcrest Ave Antioch; 17900 San Ramon  Valley Road, San Ramon; 39139 Farwell Drive, Fremont; 4808 Dublin Blvd, Dublin; 30980 Dyer Street, Union City; 98 Shaw Ave., Clovis; 1665 W. Lacey Rd., Hanford; 7007 N. Cedar Ave., Fresno; 3604 W. Shaw Ave., Fresno; 5325 W. Avenida De Los Robles, Visalia; 9000 Ming Ave., Bakersfield; 3400 S. Mooney Blvd, Visalia; 8430 N. Friant Rd., Fresno.