Letters Back Home

More from the USO

• Oct 19, 2026

  We’re With Manny: A Soldier Who Became Crucial to USO Mission Delivery in the Middle East

  U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Manuel Matias Chavez, known as Manny, has volunteered with USO teams at five locations throughout his military career. In the Middle East, he helped deliver approximately 300 pounds of supplies to service members in Bahrain and ensured troops continued receiving USO support after staff had to leave parts of the region due to safety concerns.

• Oct 14, 2026

  We’re With the Havilands: A Military Family Facing an Unexpected Deployment Head-On

  After 20 years of marriage and multiple deployments, Krystal Haviland knows firsthand the uncertainty and sacrifices military families face when plans change and loved ones are far from home. While her husband, Scott, was deployed, Krystal found connection and a sense of belonging at the USO in Alaska, which has become a second family.

• Oct 8, 2026

  Why Support Matters During Deployment and How the USO Helps

  Deployment affects more than the service member — it impacts military spouses, children and families navigating months of separation. Here's how staying connected can support the well-being of military families during deployment, and how the USO is a constant presence for deployed service members overseas.