Ever since I can remember, I have been a proud American. I will always be a proud American. America provides endless opportunities for people, it is viewed as a land of freedom and opportunity for a reason. However, this land of ‘anything is possible’ comes at a price. Our service members sometimes give their lives to their country in dedication to our country’s mission and vision. We can never forget that kind of selfless dedication to country and we must also remember that now, more than ever, we must continue supporting veterans and current service members in our military. I have the utmost respect for those who serve in our military and support the USO’s mission.

According to the USO, since 1941, the USO has been the nation’s leading organization to serve the men and women in the U.S. military, and their families, throughout their time in uniform. From the moment they join, through their assignments and deployments, and as they transition back to their communities, the USO is always by their side.

Today’s USO continuously adapts to the needs of our men and women in uniform and their families, so they can focus on their very important mission. The USO operates centers at or near military installations across the United States and throughout the world, including in combat zones, and even un-staffed USO service sites in places too dangerous for anyone but combat troops to occupy. The USO is not part of the federal government. A congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of volunteers to accomplish our mission of connection.

Just prior to the onset of America’s involvement in World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt sought to unite several service associations into one organization to lift the morale of our military and nourish support on the home front. Those entities – the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association, Young Women’s Christian Association, National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board – became the United Service Organizations or, the USO.

USO Tours

A hallmark of the USO is its famous USO tours, bringing celebrities to entertain the troops. Perhaps most iconic was the dedication in which Bob Hope had to serving tours. Marilyn Monroe was also an iconic entertainer to sing to the troops in Korea in 1954. USO tours technically launched the career of Anita Ekberg, who had been invited to replace Marilyn by Bob Hope. This gave Anita the press needed to launch an entertainment career. While the USO serves troops, it has also launched careers!

Thank a military member you know and support your troops!