VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. – National Guard members were among the crowds in Washington, D.C., Wednesday providing security at the inaugural events and in the days leading up to it.
About 2,400 guard members from Virginia were sent to join the efforts. Meanwhile, the USO was helping provide comfort and boosting morale for the soldiers and airmen.
“The mission of the USO is to strengthen America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country throughout their service to the nation,” said Barry Morris, the Regional Communications Manager for USO Southeast.
In Hampton Roads, USO workers and volunteers helped provide comfort items to the service members as they mobilized.
“Many times during rapid deployments like this, service members have very little time to plan or pack, making the sight of a mobile USO vehicle unit or USO staffer handing out personal care items a particularly welcomed site,” explained Morris.
In addition to hot coffee, snacks and hygiene kits, the USO also provided books, hand warmers and free Wi-Fi so they could stay connected with family during their breaks.
A mobile USO unit from North Carolina was sent to help with the efforts. Morris said those are often used in times of natural disasters like hurricanes.
“We are grateful for our service members who consistently step up to protect the American people,” stated Morris. “It is our duty as military supporters to strengthen and support those who serve. The USO is the force behind the Forces, leading the way to unite all Americans to actively express gratitude and support members of the military and their families at home and abroad.”
The USO was founded in 1941 and will celebrate its 80th anniversary on February 4.
To find more out about volunteering with the USO, click here. For more information about the USO of Hampton Roads and Central Virginia, click here.
