The USO is for the people who serve. Strengthening the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families. Since 1941, the USO has strengthened America's military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation. From the moment they join, through their assignments and deployments, and as they transition back to their communities, the USO is always by their side. We are the Force Behind the Forces. We currently operate more than 250 USO centers at or near military installations, including in combat zones, MEPS centers, several airports, and even un-staffed USO service sites in places too dangerous for anyone but combat troops to occupy. We serve the American Armed Forces - specifically, U.S. Active, Reserve, and Guard service members and their families through a wide arrange of programs and entertainment. The USO is a congressionally chartered, private organization that relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support its activities, and is powered by a family of over 30,000 volunteers to accomplish our mission. The USO is not part of the federal government.