By MATT LINDSEY

CANTON -- The "Return the Favor" veterans discount program is available for all St. Lawrence County veterans offering them savings on everything from automotive, food and various services.

The program was installed in 2012 after St. Lawrence County Clerk Mary Lou Rupp says heard about the idea from a county clerk in Rockland County.

"We thought it was a great idea and a nice was to thank veterans for their service," she said.

About 600 veterans signed up when the program initially launched. New software program does not track how many veterans are currently signed up, but Rupp said would "image it is over 1,000,' in St. Lawrence County.

"Veterans have been very appreciative of the program…this is a free program for them," Rupp said.

Veterans are who file their military discharge forms/DD-214 with the county clerk’s office are eligible to receive a picture ID card free of charge identifying them as a veteran. Participating county merchants honor the card by a discount on purchases or services.

If a veteran cannot locate his or her military discharge (DD 214 or WD AGO 53-55), they can contact Michael Boprey at 386-4754 for assistance.

To view the complete list of local businesses that offer discounts, visit http://www.co.st-lawrence.ny.us/Departments/CountyClerk/VeteransProgramParticipants

For more information, contact 379-2237 or 386-4754.