The History of the USO

Justin Humphries, November 27, 2019

 

The United Services Organization (USO) has a lengthy and interesting history. Founded in 1941 prior to America's involvement in World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated the start of the organization to unite many service organizations into a single entity. This was done with the purpose of lifting morale of the military and building support on the home front. The organizations that joined forces to form the USO included the following:

• Salvation Army
• Young Men's Christian Association
• Young Women's Christian Association
• National Catholic Community Services
• National Travelers Aid Association
• National Jewish Welfare Board

Since that day, the USO has operated on a mission to always be on the side of the military members who serve our country and their family members. Today, the USO has more than 200 centers around the globe in countries on every continent.

The USO aids active duty military members and their families by providing services, programs, and entertainment. Some of the assistance offered by the USO includes:

• Established USO centers for services, programs, and entertainment
• Operation Phone Home program
• Military spouse programs
• USO care package program
• Transition resources
• Entertainment for the troops
• And so much more!

The USO is highly appreciated and utilized by military members and their families. In fact, in 2017, USO centers were visited by service members and family members over 7 million times! The USO is operated by staff and volunteers with funding thanks to donations received.

Learn more about this patriotic military support organization by visiting the USO website and see why this entity is so highly thought of and utilized 70+ years after its establishment. You'll also be able to see how you can help and lend a hand to this extraordinary organization.