Michigan motorists will see more than 10,000 new patriotic license plates on the road this Thanksgiving.

Since initiating the patriotic “Proud To Be American” license plate Oct. 15, the state has collected more than $130,000 in proceeds that will be divided between The Salvation Army and American Red Cross.

“The plate has had an overwhelming response from the public,” said Julie Pierce, a spokeswoman for Secretary of State Candice Miller.

“As a state, we are a very generous community.

“In response to the acts of Sept. 11, the whole nation was in shock and its response has been tremendous.”

The red, white and blue license plate features a dark blue silhouette of Michigan with the American flag superimposed over it. “Proud To Be American” is emblazoned across the bottom of the plate.

“The patriotic plate has been doing quite well,” Pierce said. “To date, it is our fastest selling fund-raising plate.”

Pierce said the plate has outsold the six existing “cause” plates and 13 of the state university plates offered by the state. Only the MSU and University of Michigan plates have been more widely purchased.

The patriotic plates cost $35 in addition to annual registration fees. The American Red Cross and The Salvation Army share $25 from each plate, and the remaining $10 is used for production and mailing of the plate.

“We are very excited about being the beneficiary of this wonderful patriotic gesture,” said Tanya Naumenko, a spokeswoman for the Eastern Michigan Division of The Salvation Army. “We really are deeply touched at the outpouring of Michigan residents, not only for the support of the country, but for the benefit of The Salvation Army.”

Every time the “Proud To Be American” plate is renewed, a $10 fee will be shared between the organizations. A personalized plate is available for an additional $30, and is renewable for $15.

“We are just delighted that they have sold so many,” said Terry Hickey, a spokeswoman for the American Red Cross Mid Michigan Chapter, 1800 E. Grand River Ave. in Lansing. “We will be coming up with a plan in January as to how the money will be distributed.”

The patriotic plates may be ordered at any branch office, and order forms can be downloaded at www.sos.state.mi.us.

Branch offices will be closed Thursday and Friday for Thanksgiving.