Writing Guide

The way we communicate should reflect the reality of service, how the USO shows up, and the impact of that support.

Our voice is grounded in the experiences of the people who serve — clear, human, and direct, focused on real moments and real impact.

We avoid generalities and institutional language. We speak about people, the pressures they face, and how support makes a difference.

To keep our voice clear and consistent, we focus our language on people, the realities of service, and the impact of support.

This reflects how we talk about the USO across everything we create. The examples below show how to keep that language aligned.

Instead of:	Use:
Force Behind the Forces	For the People Who Serve
#BeTheForce	#theUSO
Military supporter	Service member supporter/ Supporter of people serving in the military
The USO supports the military	The USO supports the people serving in the military

Our tone reflects how we show up for the people who serve. It should feel human, grounded, and consistent across everything we create. It reinforces the reality of service, how the USO shows up, and the impact of that support.

Empathetic

We show understanding of what service members and families experience. We describe real situations clearly and respectfully. We do not overdramatize or minimize what they are going through.

In writing:

• Focus on real experiences (long deployments, missed milestones, demanding schedules)

• Acknowledge what service members and families are dealing with

• Use straightforward language instead of formal or technical wording

Example:

❌ “Service members face a variety of challenges during deployment.”

✅ “Long deployments can mean time away from family and missing important moments at home.”

Uplifting

We show how support makes a positive difference.

We highlight real moments of connection and support without exaggerating.

In writing:

• Focus on specific moments where support helps

• Let the situation carry the emotion

Example:

❌ “Our heroes make incredible sacrifices every day.”

✅ “The USO helps service members stay connected to home, even during long deployments.”

Steadfast

We show that the USO is reliable and present.

We make it clear that support is consistent and available wherever service members are.

In writing:

• Use clear, confident statements
• Reinforce where and how the USO shows up
• Avoid vague or overly broad claims

Example:

❌ “The USO provides support to military personnel.”

✅ “The USO is there on bases, aboard ships, and in remote locations around the world.”

Adaptable

We reflect the different environments where service happens.

We adjust tone based on the situation while keeping language clear and easy to understand.

In writing:

• Match tone to the setting (deployment, home life, transition)
• Use language that fits the situation
• Keep sentences simple and easy to follow

Example:

❌ “Service environments vary greatly across the military.”

✅ “From remote training sites to busy bases, service members operate in very different environments.”

Enterprising

We focus on action and results.

We show what the USO does and how that support helps service members and families.

In writing:

• Focus on what is happening, not just what is intended
• Highlight clear outcomes of support
• Keep language concise and direct

Example:

❌ “The USO aims to support service members worldwide.”

✅ “The USO delivers care packages, connection, and support wherever service members are.”

Style Manual

The preferred style manual for USO communications is The Associated Press Stylebook. All USO writers are expected to follow AP style.

It is recommended that anyone directly involved in the creation of marketing and communications materials get an online subscription to the AP Stylebook.

For spelling and usage issues not covered in the AP stylebook, use Webster’s New World College Dictionary, the Stylebook’s primary dictionary.