innoUSO Celebrates 75th anniversary last week
Fri, 2016-02-12 05:00
News Staff
By CHUCK TAYLOR
Cove Leader-Press
The USO celebrated its 75th anniversary last week with honored guests, a large cake and lots of food. The event took place outside USD’s Fort Hood offices. An American flag which had flown over the Texas state capitol building was presented to the organization by a staff member from Congressman Roger Williams’ office.
Dignitaries including Lynda MacFarland, wife of Lt. Sean MacFarland and Sandra Smith, wife of CSM Alonzo Smith were on hand and spoke of the many significant programs that the USO provides for the United States armed forces throughout the world.
The USO was formed in 1941 during the 2nd World War and soon became well known due to the many shows they put on for troops in the war zones. Bob Hope was one of many Hollywood stars who traveled the world, helping lift troop morale. Donald Felt, a site manager with USO explained what the six stars on their logo stands for. Each star represents a founding member of the USO. They are The YMCA, the YWCA, Salvation Army, National Jewish Welfare Board, National Catholic Community Services and Travelers Aid.
Along with a beautiful cake, local restaurants provided lots of food for the over 100 troopers present. Chick-fil-A, Domino’s, Texas Road House, Rudy’s Barbecue and El Chico Café gave the crowd a variety of food at no charge.
The USO at Ft. Hood feeds over 200 troopers a day as well as providing services which help make life a bit easier for them and their families. The USO operates worldwide serving all of the United States armed forces and is able to continue its mission through community support.