Speidel "Change A Band, Change A Life™" Charitable Giving Program Recognizes U.S. Military with Help from Rhode Island Governor's Office

CRANSTON, R.I., Jan. 15, 2013 /PRNewswire/ -- Speidel, the world's number one recognized brand of watchbands and identification bracelets, based in Rhode Island since its founding in 1904, joined Operation Homefront and members of the U.S. Military today as Governor Lincoln Chafee  proclaimed the month of January in the year 2013 as "Speidel 'Change A Band, Change A Life™' Month" in the state. To mark the occasion, Speidel also presented a $25,000 donation check to Operation Homefront at the proclamation ceremony at the Rhode Island State House.

Countless numbers of brave Americans, many Rhode Islanders among them, have demonstrated their courage and commitment to America and to freedom around the world by serving in the nation's armed forces. Through its newly established "Change A Band, Change A Life™" charitable giving program, Speidel strives to inspire consumers to "band together" in supporting, honoring and meeting the needs of these current and former members of the U.S. military and their families, who have sacrificed so much while fighting tirelessly for our freedom.

To that end, the company is donating a portion of the proceeds from any Speidel product sold nationwide to aid Operation Homefront's patriotic cause. Operation Homefront is a Charity Navigator 4-star rated, national nonprofit that provides members of the American armed forces and their families with critically needed support, emergency assistance and financial aid, making a profound difference in many military lives.

"At Speidel we are committed to giving back to those serving in our military and are grateful to have the Governor and the state of Rhode Island formally recognize our efforts," said Lynn-Marie Cerce, co-owner of Speidel. "The 'Change A Band, Change A Life™' program is the ideal way for our company to thank America's troops for their sacrifice, service and unwavering dedication to our country."

"Every time a consumer changes their watchband, or purchases a Speidel watch or identification bracelet, they can be certain they are contributing directly to changing the lives of our military heroes and their families," continued Gennaro Cerce, co-owner of Speidel.

"Our military families and injured service members need support now more than ever," said Jim Knotts, President and CEO of Operation Homefront. "Speidel's generous donations help these dedicated heroes know that while they are protecting us, someone back home is looking out for them and their families.  Operation Homefront thanks them for their commitment and support."

"I am proud to join with Rhode Island-based Speidel, one of the nation's iconic brands, and Operation Homefront, to call attention to the needs of millions of brave Americans, including thousands of Rhode Islanders, who have put their lives on the line for our country by serving in the armed forces," said Governor Lincoln Chafee. "It is essential that we recognize the sacrifices they have made for us, and band together to help our veterans, members of the military and their families who are experiencing financial hardship."

Speidel products, including the company's signature "Twist-O-Flex®" watchband, Speidel Identification Bracelets (Speidel ID's ®, My First ID®) and Medical Alert bracelets (Medilog®), are available at high end jewelry stores and mass merchants across the United States.

Photographs from the proclamation ceremony at the Rhode Island State House, Speidel product images and samples are available upon request.

About Speidel 
Since 1904, vintage American brand Speidel (www.speidel.com) has been renowned for its innovative designs, operational excellence, and passion for customer service. The #1 recognized brand in the world of watchbands and identification bracelets, Speidel offers a variety of products including the company's signature "Twist-O-Flex®" watchband, Speidel Identification Bracelets (Speidel ID's®, My First ID®) and Medical Alert bracelets (Medilog®), as well as beautifully crafted traditional and contemporary timepieces. Speidel can be found at both exclusive independent jewelers and well known mass retailers across the U.S., as well as at www.Speidel.com, on Facebook and Twitter.  

Contact:  
Erin Vadala, Vice President 
Warner Communications 
978.468.3076; [email protected]

SOURCE Speidel