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Sense of Congress Regarding the Contribution of the USO to Our Armed Forces

Date: Feb. 14, 2006
Location: Washington, DC
Issues: National Security


SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING THE CONTRIBUTION OF THE USO TO OUR ARMED FORCES -- (House of Representatives - February 14, 2006)

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Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I urge support for House Concurrent Resolution 322, and I appreciate the leadership of my Armed Services Committee seatmate JEFF MILLER for authoring the resolution. He and his wife, Vicky, are tireless advocates for our military heroes who protect American families. I am also grateful for the USO Caucus leadership of Congressman JEFF MILLER and SYLVESTRE REYES, two of the most dedicated Members of Congress.

Created in 1941 by the request of President Franklin D. Roosevelt, the United Service Organizations delivers encouragement and optimism to our brave men and women in uniform. The USO is ably led by president and CEO Ned Powell, who is a distinguished graduate of Washington and Lee University in Virginia.

Throughout the past six decades, the USO has evolved continuously to meet our soldiers' needs during wartime and peacetime. From operating clubs where troops can meet, to sponsoring Bob Hope's historic shows, the organization has a tremendous record of providing critical comfort and aid to our servicemembers. Today, with the help of 12,000 volunteers providing nearly 450,000 hours of service per year, the USO operates 124 centers and six mobile canteens around the world. On the State level, we have had outstanding programs such as in South Carolina with Redd Reynolds entertaining National Guard troops.

I am proud to join Congressman JEFF MILLER and Congressman SYLVESTRE REYES in congratulating the USO for its 65th anniversary of dedicated service. As American soldiers risk their lives in the war on terrorism to protect American families, the USO's mission is more important than ever. I appreciate the USO firsthand from my knowledge as a Member of Congress, a 31-year veteran, and as the parent of three sons currently serving in the military.

In conclusion, God bless our troops and we will never forget September 11.

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