AKRON, Ohio, June 24, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Support of the U.S. Armed Forces has been part of the fabric of The Goodyear & Tire Rubber Company (NASDAQ: GT) for more than a century. Goodyear today announced a new extension to that support pledging a $100,000 donation to Support Our Troops^®, a nonprofit nationwide organization that works to bolster the morale and well-being of America's troops and their families.

Additionally, beginning today and extending through August 26, Goodyear and Walmart, another significant military supporter, will ask consumers to nominate a deserving military member or their family members for a chance to win a new set of Goodyear tires and a coveted NASCAR^® experience, which includes a trip for four to a NASCAR race.

Nominations and donations can be made at www.walmart.com/goodyeartiresfortroops. Additionally, consumers can enter to win other NASCAR-themed prizes, Support Our Troops race-used Goodyear tires and more.

"Goodyear has a rich history with the U.S. Armed Forces and our unwavering support is reflected in this program," said Steve McClellan, president, Goodyear Americas. "We are pleased to join forces with Walmart to show our appreciation for the military."

"Having Goodyear and Walmart team up to raise money and awareness to better the lives of the men and women who protect our freedom is amazing," said Martin C. Boire, executive director of Support Our Troops. "Companies such as Goodyear and Walmart do so much for our troops, from veterans' hiring programs and other fundraising efforts and it doesn't go unnoticed by our military members."

Goodyear has more than 100 years of history building innovative tires and equipment to help support and protect U.S. troops and is the largest producer of military tires in the country. The tire manufacturer has helped build more than 150 blimps for the U.S. Navy and customizes its iconic Goodyear Eagle race tires annually to display a Support Our Troops message during two May NASCAR races in Charlotte, N.C.

The company was recently recognized as a Military Friendly Employer by G.I. Jobs magazine for its leadership in hiring and supporting veterans. In 2014, Goodyear surpassed a three-year goal of hiring 1,000 veterans and since then, has renewed its commitment to hiring another 1,000 veterans over three years.

Goodyear has implemented annual programs to raise funds for Support Our Troops since 2010 and to date has raised more than $1 million for the organization.

About Goodyear

Goodyear, founded in 1898 in Akron, is one of the world's largest tire companies. It employs approximately 66,000 people and manufactures its products in 49 facilities in 22 countries around the world. Its two Innovation Centers in Akron, and Colmar-Berg, Luxembourg strive to develop state-of-the-art products and services that set the technology and performance standard for the industry. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com.

About Support Our Troops

SupportOurTroops.org provides simple constructive ways for citizens and community minded businesses to show their patriotism and appreciation for those who sacrifice so much to protect our country, our homes, our families, and our American way of life. Support Our Troops is a registered trademark licensed through SupportOurTroops.org. The official SupportOurTroops.org website is a nationwide platform for individuals, organizations, businesses and non-profits to bolster America's troops and their families in a multitude of ways. It is a moral covenant with those who serve to protect us and our families.

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SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company