USO opens its doors to first USO Center in Balad, Iraq

The first USO center to be located in Iraq, USO Balad celebrated its opening with a center dedication and ribbon cutting ceremony. Among those in attendance were General David Petraeus, USO president and CEO Edward Powell as well as soldiers, sailors, Marines, airmen, coastguardsmen and civilians stationed throughout the region.

"Since our inception, the USO has had one and only mission, and that is to bring the heart of America to our men and women who serve," said Powell. "This center, just as all of our USO centers located worldwide, is representative of that mission and will remain in Balad as long as men and women in uniform are stationed there."

Referred to as "Mortaritaville" because of the area's history of frequent mortar and rocket attacks by insurgents, the center will provide a range of conveniences designed to connect troops with the comforts of home. Among the many amenities offered by USO Balad are free Internet and e-mail access, pre-paid phone cards, access to video games and movies, resting areas with recliners, and refreshments.

"I had an opportunity to see the USO facility and it's first rate," said Gen. Petraeus. "From the game rooms to movies to places to just sit and relax, it is wonderful. And I am confident that the troopers located at Balad Air Base and LSSA Anaconda will love this facility."

Earlier this week the USO recognized and celebrated its 67th anniversary. Formed in 1941, the USO has expanded its programs and services to help meet the increasing needs of today's military personnel and their families. Recently, the USO opened eleven new centers in Afghanistan, Kuwait, Texas, New York, Virginia, California and on Guam. The organization also distributed more than one million Operation USO Care Packages and two million phone cards, letting America's troops know their service and sacrifice have not been forgotten.

"The USO has provided unparalleled support to our troopers, in countless ways large and small," continued Patraeus. "Our troopers feel that support when they enter a USO airport center, when they watch their favorite entertainers on USO entertainment tours and when they receive clothing, DVDS, CDs and other items. And now our troops serving in Balad will feel that support when they enter and enjoy the first USO facility in Iraq."

The USO relies on the generosity of the American public to support its vital work. USO programs include USO Operation Phone Home(R), Operation USO Care Package, United Through Reading(R) Military Program, the Mobile USO Fleet, Operation Enduring Care, USO CarePages, Gifts from the Homefront and Operation Mail Call.