USO Good Times Boost Morale in Iraq

Since its establishment in 1941 during World War II the United Service Organization or USO has been a steadfast supporter of military personnel around the world. While times have changed, the USO mission has remained the same: to boost the morale of service members and serve as the link between them and the American people.

The USO motto: "Freedom is our birthright, peace is our passion."

The accompanying camera shot credits retired Vietnam War Congressional Medal of Honor recipient Col. Jack Jacobs as he emcees and shares stories at the Camp Victory, Iraq, tour held on Jan. 2, 2006 in observance of American holidays. Other tour participants included pop singer Diana DeGarmo, comedian Reggie McFadden and country singer Mike Peterson. Military heroes were honored by the USO most recently on Friday, Sept. 21, 2007 at the Washington Nationals Game.

USO services include information and referrals, Internet and e-mail access, housing, emergency assistance and support groups, etc., available to all branches of the military including U.S. Coast Guard and National Guard, and families.

Established by President Roosevelt in 1941 with the YWCA, YMCA, National Jewish Welfare Board, National Catholic Community Service, Salvation Army and Travelers Aid, the USO's enrollment at peak operating times included as many as 40,000 volunteers. Currently there are 25,000 volunteers and employees. Volunteers are laymen and 130 centers are located worldwide. Although USO Headquarters are based from Arlington, Va., USA, services are also sponsored by the United Nations. The organization is non-profit, charitable and facilitates fund-raising for military and families. A notable donation of $350,000 was recently raised by the TriWest Health Alliance.

Some of the great fund-raising tours were not limited to and featured the Tobi Keith tour of Cuba, Germany, Belgium and Persian Gulf; Rich Little toured Germany and Netherlands; the La Mafia entertainers visited Fort Carlos, Colo.; Willie Nelson and Jessica Simpson celebrities stopped at Ramstein Base in Germany; and a recent preshow of "The Dukes of Hazard" movie was very popular. Currently other USO centers are operating in Kuwait and Afghanistan. The Hurricane Katrina outreach was hosted by entertainer Wayne Newton. And very importantly, the famous comedian and performer Bob Hope has hosted many shows since the United Service Organization startup

In your town or workplace consider organizing a donation to the USO. For details of what can be sent or donated visit www.uso.com or contact the local VFW or recruiter in your area for a delivery options.