CELEBRATE USO DAY BY GIVING BACK TO OUR NATION’S MILITARY COMMUNITY


By bblouin
Actor Robert Patrick in "Captain USO" mode beside a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected vehicle, or MRAP, as Army Gen during USO day. Frank Grass, chief, National Guard Bureau, leads the first-ever National Guard USO Tour, Afghanistan, May 19, 2016.

The United Service Organizations helps connect families that are separated because of the call of duty. Additionally, the organization honors the military community, and entertains troops serving far and wide. Better known as the USO, every year on February 4th, the nonprofit celebrates its birthday throughout the country and around the world. USO Day is a reminder of how important and impactful the group is for the military and civilian communities alike. From helping lift the spirits of World War 2 warfighters to their continued efforts today, we’re looking back on a very happy birthday to the organization helping millions by putting the American Armed Forces first. Suggested read: Nikki Haley’s Husband (Michael Haley) Deploys to Africa

What Is USO Day?

USO Day is a date to thank and remember the organization that helps lift the spirits of American troops. Since its inception in 1941, the 83 years and counting that the USO has dedicated to serving the military community started after bringing the resources of six different entities into one. Mary Shotwell Ingraham founded the organization after Franklin D. Roosevelt tasked her with boosting morale. Therefore, the idea was to provide troops with Americana and entertainment overseas as a way to unwind. USO Camp Shows were live entertainment that brought out many of the biggest stars right to those in uniform. Held all over the world, the organization actually disbanded after WWII but was brought back during the Cold War. It has evolved over the years into much more than just entertainment. USO Day reminds us of how valuable the organization is and provides a much-warranted celebration for their efforts. Today, the shows continue, but the USO also provides heartfelt moments for families, advocates for the military community, and helps with financial and educational assistance.

Notable Moments

There have been many notable events celebrating USO Day throughout the years. Each provides an important moment, marking the occasion with a formal approach for the organization we all know and love:

  • February 4, 1941, is what started it all. The first USO Day birthed the organization and boosted the lives of the military community ever since.
  • On December 31, 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson officially designated USO Day asking Americans to support the organization.
  • In 2003, Congress decided to create a caucus and regularly meet to discuss issues focused on the USO.
  • An early birthday celebration came on November 11, 2020, as Bryan Cranston presented a special on the History Channel looking back at eight decades of the USO.

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How to Celebrate USO Day

Like any birthday, USO Day calls for a celebration. Cake, balloons, and gifts work surprisingly well here for the organization, but if you’re looking to mark the occasion, here are a few ideas:

  • Giving back is one of the easiest, most impactful ways to mark the occasion. For instance, donate to the USO with just a few clicks of a button and help support the initiative and military community.
  • Watching military-themed movies and shows or playing a military video game is a great way to get into the spirit. Furthermore, it’s a great opportunity to reach out and bond with those in the military community that you know and love.
  • Send packages to the USO or start a fundraiser to give back year after year.
  • Lastly, if there are any USO events nearby, head over and support the organization all while having a great time doing it.

Celebrate USO Day this year and every year by supporting the organization and the military community at large. Happy Birthday USO and thanks for all that you do! Read next: Marine Finally Gets Purple Heart Award For Ramadi Ambush


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