Carson City -- A new program to honor veterans and active duty service members is being launched by the office of Secretary of State Ross Miller. The "I Vote to Honor a Service Member" program recognizes the service and dedication of the women and men of the United States Armed Forces by encouraging Nevada voters to cast their ballots in honor of the service member of their choice.

Participants submit a message on an application form and will receive a limited edition lapel pin with the "I Vote to Honor a Service Member" logo. Messages may be published on a special testimonial section of the Secretary of State's website. Voters can download the application form at http://www.nvsos.gov/index.aspx?page=1242.

"My office is working hard in preparation for the upcoming election, but we all realize that no one works harder than our troops," said Miller. "Whether you're honoring someone who served decades ago or an active duty member of our military, this is an excellent way to recognize their invaluable contribution. Ultimately, it's our military that has protected our system of democracy for more than 200 years. We should all be reminded of that."

 Miller credits his colleague Iowa Secretary of State Matt Schultz for the idea. "We saw what Iowa was doing with their 'Vote in Honor of a Veteran' program and immediately knew it was something we wanted to do in Nevada," he said. "After making a trip to the Middle East to meet some of the troops firsthand and discuss elections and balloting issues with them, it reinforced to me the importance of what they're doing 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year."

Although there is a limited number of pins available to participants, the opportunity to post messages honoring veterans and active duty service members is available to all participants.