By Paige Youmans.
The United Service Organizations (USO) was established in 1941 “To strengthen the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families.” The program unites, delivers, entertains, and successfully transitions US active duty, reserve, and National Guard service members. In fact, in 2022 the USO provided 213,945 mission delivery moments statewide. Some of these came through the USO’s Reading Program, which allows active service members to record themselves reading a book as a heartwarming gift that is then sent to their family. Also, the USO offers Coffee Connections and Military Spouse events as ongoing opportunities to strengthen camaraderie among the broader military community. When service members are preparing for modifications in stationing or implementing changes to return to civilian life, the USO provides transition support. If a military family faces the devastation of a fallen soldier, the USO has programs for grief support and many other resources to connect with others in similar circumstances. In addition to these programs, the USO is most recognized for its efforts to uplift morale through events hosted specifically for active-duty service members during deployment.
In the Midlands, the USO features a centralized volunteer effort at the Columbia Metropolitan Airport (CAE) in West Columbia through a mutually beneficial arrangement by which the USO serves in an airport “ambassador” role. This arrangement promotes a welcoming, friendly environment for all parties, those leaving and those entering the premises. Smiling volunteers greet passengers and their families, serve at the information desk, and supervise the lost-and-found headquarters. There are two beautifully accommodated lounges operated by the USO for active service members to rest, eat, decompress, and recharge. This provides a unique position in which to provide direct and immediate assistance to military service members with intentionality and sincere appreciation. Volunteers are not only prepared to serve by meeting the nutritional needs of the officers and their loved ones but also by helping them navigate the somewhat irritating logistics of travel accommodations, mandatory agendas, and transportation schedules.
Megan Barton, USO Center 
Operations Supervisor, graciously allowed Our Town Magazine staff members to shadow at the local facility, allowing a glimpse into the USO’s southern hospitality. “It is an honor and privilege to serve the service members who visit our center each week,” Barton notes. “Whether they are stopping by for a cup of coffee or heading to basic training, we look to provide comfort and smiles for all. I can only hope that the impact I’ve had on them is as great as the impact they’ve had on me.”
Recognizing the significance of the USO in the lives of service members and their families, Barton recounts a touching account of twin recruits who were visiting the lounge as they awaited their transport to Basic Combat Training (BCT). Their report date was near Father’s Day, and the USO volunteers had graciously created cards for service members to mail for the occasion; both recruits sent cards to their father. Tragically, just before BCT graduation one of the twin sisters passed away during training. Although the family’s loss was unimaginable, the handwritten memory offered solace during a time of grief. Connections such as this are what make the operations of the USO so intimate and important.
Due to the sheer volume of military service members that grace the halls of CAE facilities and its planes each day, the USO has a team of dedicated volunteers and donors. Most civilians do not realize that the organization is not a governmental agency and does not receive federal funds—it is a non-profit, charitable corporation chartered by Congress that is contingent upon beneficial partnerships, donors, and volunteers. Although the airport generously provides storage facilities for multitudes of donations such as food and beverages, the USO’s storehouse is in constant need of replenishment.
Fortunately, many statewide businesses, industries, and franchises such as Starbucks and Lowes Foods are committed to contributing to USO operations. National and local partnerships with corporations as well as generous individuals are crucial for maintaining constant and reliable services, support, and resources. Consider taking an active role in honoring those who fight for your freedom. If saying, “Thank you for your service,” just seems a bit inadequate, remember that your time, prayers, skills, and/or donations to the USO are very appreciated and will bless military service people and their families across the world.
National Resources:
United Service Organizations
P.O. Box 96860
Washington, DC 20077-7677
USO.org
1-888-484-3876
Local Resources:
SouthCarolina.USO.org
Volunteers.USO.org
803-822-7953
