USO gets a boost from local business

Officials from Kadena United Services Organizations, AIU insurance company and the 18th Mission Support Group pose with a check for the USO on Kadena Air Base, Japan, July 9, 2012. AIU presented a check of 3,465,000 yen to the Kadena USO; half of the money will go to different programs and events in mainland Japan, while the other half will go towards programs and events on Okinawa.

USO gets boost from local organization

Published July 15, 2012
By Airman 1st Class Justin Veazie
18th Wing Public Affairs

KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Officials from AIU insurance company presented a check of 3,465,000 yen (approximately $50,000) to Kadena's United Service Organization, and Col. Roftiel Constantine, 18th Mission Support Group commander, July 9.

Half of the proceeds will be directed to different programs and events for Japan and Okinawa, $10,000 of which will go toward renovations for the Kadena USO.

The Kadena USO has supported and entertained service members since 1962.

"We help you stay connected with high speed fiber internet, computers, printing, faxing, scanning and Skype phones that provide you the opportunity to call home," explained Maria Darling, USO manager. "We also have special events throughout the year."

The Kadena USO also has several social rooms and a small movie theater available for reservation up to a month in advance for a suggested $35 donation.

For more information about Kadena USO activities, call 634-3889 or visit www.facebook.com/USOKadena.

According to USO.org, the USO was established shortly after America entered World War II in 1941. The organization, created by President Franklin D. Roosevelt, united the efforts of other organizations like the Salvation Army and National Travelers Aid Association to provide emotional support to American troops.