By Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild
As approximately 1,000 service members waited outside the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa to receive the COVID-19 vaccine, USO representatives gave them a warm welcome by providing drinks, snacks and fun-filled games to help pass the wait time.
“Today we teamed up with the Gary Sinise Foundation to provide a small breakfast and refreshments for the service members in line for the vaccine,” USO Camp Foster Area Programs Manager Cindy Kirkman said. “We want to be right beside our service members and give them that extra boost in the arm in any way possible.”
U.S. Marine Corps Pfc. Jeremiah, who was at the event, explained that since a number of service members were unaware of the wait time for the vaccine, they were relieved to find that the USO provided free refreshments and entertainment.
Camp Foster Center Manager provides service members with fresh fruit. | Photo credit Lance Cpl. Alex Fairchild
“Although I got here to receive the vaccine early this morning, I still had to wait in line for a long time,” Grigsby said. “The USO gave me a much-needed pick-me-up while I was waiting outside.”
Despite the challenges of COVID-19, the USO is committed to serving and has found ways to adapt and reach out to service members in every way that they can.
“It’s all about showing love and support to our troops and to help them stay mission ready,” Kirkman said. “We’re here to help protect the force and keep them in the fight. We’re all in this fight against the pandemic together, and we will be there to help every step of the way.”
Grigsby explained that no matter where he is, he always finds the USO there to support service members despite the challenges of the pandemic.
Camp Foster representatives greet service members at the U.S. Naval Hospital Okinawa.
-This article was originally published on DVIDSHub.net. It has been edited for USO.org.
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