USO Brings a Vital Connection to Home During Exercise Keris Strike 2026

By Ashley DeBerry, Regional Operations Specialist

In the middle of a remote jungle training area, surrounded by long days, muddy terrain and frequent tropical downpours, a simple tent became a place of respite for U.S. service members participating in Exercise Keris Strike 2026 in Malaysia.

While Keris Strike strengthened military partnerships and combat readiness alongside U.S. allies, it also meant weeks away from family, friends and many of the comforts of home. For more than 800 Soldiers from the Guam Army National Guard, Oklahoma Army National Guard, Illinois Army National Guard and other supporting units, Camp Paradise — the central hub for bilateral training alongside Malaysian forces — was home to a temporary USO Center where service members could cool off, use Wi-Fi, charge their devices and unwind after a long day in the field. But it was the opportunity to connect with loved ones that mattered most for most service members.

“The biggest challenge I faced when I was deployed was being far away from my family and my friends,” said Guam Army National Guard Sgt. Antoine Palacios. “There were many times that we didn’t have Wi-Fi or cellular data, and I was able to connect with them both near and far. A temporary shelter like this plays a huge role because it allows me to still have Wi-Fi and connect with my family while I’m here conducting essential duties for the military.”

For Antoine, the support he received during Keris Strike was part of a relationship that began years earlier. Before leaving for basic training, he recalled visiting the USO for the first time and finding a welcoming place during a significant life transition. Now, thousands of miles from home in Malaysia, he found that same connection and support when he needed it most.

Throughout the exercise, the Center served as a gathering place where service members could take a break from mission demands, recharge and build relationships. Whether they were calling home, watching a movie, playing cards with friends or organizing a karaoke night, the space quickly became a favorite destination after training hours.

Leaders from the Guam Army National Guard - who had requested expanded USO support based on previous experiences - saw the positive impact firsthand.

“The USO absolutely assisted my unit and the battalion,” said 1st Lt. Martinez, Guam Army National Guard. “With the cold air conditioning, the Wi-Fi, the beverages and the snacks, we truly appreciate it. The USO really helps by providing the support and all the electricity you need.”

For others, the Center offered a much-needed sense of normalcy while serving in the austere location.

“The USO has always been there,” said Sgt. 1st Class Mark Benitez, Guam Army National Guard. “They’ve been very supportive with food, entertainment and keeping us close to families back home. It brings us back to reality, to the real world.”

As the exercise continued, the USO Center became a meaningful touch of home - a place where service members could recharge both mentally and physically before heading back into the field.

By helping them stay connected, decompress after demanding training days and maintain a sense of normalcy in a remote environment, the Center supported the personal well-being that helps service members remain focused, resilient and mission-ready.

“Thank you guys for supporting the troops both near and far,” Antonie said. “We wouldn’t be able to do this without you.”

At Keris Strike 2026, the temporary USO Center at Camp Paradise offered more than Wi-Fi, refreshments and a place to escape the heat. It provided connection, comfort and community during a demanding and intense exercise, reminding service members that wherever the mission takes them, the USO is there to support them throughout their military journey.