West Coast Mobile USO

 

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The Mobile USO was a blessing from the minute the staff started setting up the USO vehicle. They were the sole source of entertainment and morale for more than 500 troops at our location. I can’t say enough good things about the enthusiasm and support during the several days that the USO spent with us. I’ve asked our state headquarters to invite the Mobile USO the next time the California National Guard deploys to a natural disaster site.

– Major Rob Wooldridge

 

During October and November, the West Coast Mobile USO brought the USO’s mission to bases and events ranging from Ridgecrest, Calif., to Yuma, Ariz. The crew was able to serve 10,500 service men and women and drum-up support for active duty military amongst more than 750,000 participants.

 

Support at Montgomery Field for National Guard Response to California Wildfires

 

Oct. 20-21, 2007

 

On Oct. 23, the Mobile USO staff was informed that the California National Guard was deploying to provide support for the firefighters in the San Diego area, and to safeguard the communities during the wildfires. Through direct coordination with the National Guard, it was determined that the USO would be needed most at Montgomery Field in San Diego, Calif., where more than 500 service members were residing in bivouacked tents with no amenities. For five days, the Mobile USO opened its doors and offered USO programs and services to troops stationed in the area. The Mobile USO crew offered snacks, refreshments and a place for the Guardsmen to relax. Each of the three LCD televisions on the Mobile USO were set up with either a movie or sporting event at all times. The four Xbox 360 gaming units were regularly occupied by service members. Laptops and WiFi connections were made available for troops to exchange e-mails with worried family and friends back home.

Working fifteen hour shifts, the Mobile USO staff worked nonstop to provide the National Guard and their families with as much help as possible. They provided toiletries and baby wipes, which were in high demand since running water was not readily available. In addition, the crew also set up cell phone and flashlight charging stations.