New Jersey License Plate Honors Fallen Soldiers

TRENTON, N.J. (AP/CBS New York) -- Immediate family members of New Jersey soldiers killed in the line of duty will now be able to order special license plates that honor fallen troops.

The special plates include a gold star and the words "Gold Star Family.'' While most specialty plates cost $25, these will be free for verified family members. The families of more than 12,000 soldiers will be eligible for the plates.

New Jersey was one of only a few other states that didn't have Gold Star plates or a bill proposing such plates.

The Motor Vehicle Commission offers three other military-based specialty plates, including one honoring prisoners of war.

Gov. Chris Christie signed the bill into law at the War Memorial in Trenton Monday.

(Copyright 2011 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)