Video by Sandi Moynihan

NEW YORK—Before they trimmed the tree or carved the turkey, three military families kicked off the holiday season with songs, smiles and laughter at a USO meet-and-greet with broadway superstar Idina Menzel on Nov. 24.

“Each family had the most adorable children,” Menzel said. “I got to get to know them a little bit and tell them how much I appreciate the sacrifices they make.

“I also recognize how difficult the holidays can be when they’re apart, so any kind of laughter or joy I could bring to the situation was nice.”

In addition to meeting Menzel and getting VIP access to her Bloomingdale’s Holiday Concert and Window Unveiling show, the families enjoyed a day full of food and fun in New York City, including a pizza lunch and a trip to Dylan’s Candy Bar.

“It’s been great that I’ve been able to experience these things,” said Michelle Moore, a military spouse attending the day’s events. “My husband’s in Bahrain and all my kids, especially my son, he says he misses his dad a lot. And it’s really nice when we can do other things that are cool and interesting to make the time go faster.”

*Menzel is supporting our troops through the USO through wishbook - the gift that gives twice.

The USO wishbook is an alternative giving catalog. The gifts you purchase from the USO wishbook allow you to recognize a special occasion while directly benefiting the troops and their families.*