FEBRUARY 4

On this date in 1941, the United Service Organization (USO) was founded.  It is a non-profit organization that works with the U.S. Department of Defense. It  provides clubs for our service men and women - it currently has about 160 locations worldwide.  Additionally, it organizes celebrity trips to war zones and other places our troops are stationed. 

When I was in Vietnam, they built a makeshift USO club not far from our camp.  It was basically a large tent with wooden floor and stage.  Musical acts were brought in from the States to perform - American beer was the staple.  I visited when I could.  It was a touch of home.

The USO sponsored yearly trips by Bob Hope to Vietnam and in 1967 he had a one day show not far from where I was.  He brought along many stars.  This time he had one-hit-wonder Nancy Sinatra singing her hit "These Boots Are Made For Walking".  How apropos.  Everyone in the audience wore their government issue jungle boots.
 
The USO is funded primarily by donations. 
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