The USO is a private, nonprofit organization whose mission is to support the troops by providing morale, welfare and recreation-type services to our men and women in uniform. The original intent of Congress — and enduring style of USO delivery — is to represent the American people by extending a touch of home to the military. The USO currently operates more than 135 centers worldwide, including ten mobile canteens located in the continental United States and overseas. Overseas centers are located in Germany, Italy, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Qatar, Korea, Iraq, Afghanistan, Guam and Kuwait. Service members and their families visit USO centers more than 6.9 million times each year. The USO is the way the American public supports the troops.
History of The USO
The USO was conceived in 1941 in response to a mandate from President Franklin D. Roosevelt. The President challenged six private organizations – the YMCA, YWCA, National Catholic Community Service, the National Jewish Welfare Board, the Traveler’s Aid Association and the Salvation Army – to handle the on-leave morale needs for members of the armed forces.
While the USO has diversified and changed over time, the mission remains unchanged: to bring a touch of home to our men and women in uniform, until every one comes home.
The USO is the link between the American people and military personnel. Through the USO, Americans can show their appreciation and express their gratitude.
The USO is not a government agency. It is a nonprofit, charitable organization and relies on donations from private citizens and corporations.
Currently, the USO operates more than 135 centers in 10 countries, 21 states and the District of Columbia.
More than 25,000 volunteers donate their time and talents. Service members and their families visit USO centers 6.9 million times each year.
