USO opens new center in Kuwait

This center will be the sixth in the Persian Gulf region. Other USO centers are located in Afghanistan, Bahrain, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates.

"The USO is proud to be expanding in the Persian Gulf region, offering a 'home away from home' to military personnel serving far from home and loved ones,"

said USO president and CEO Edward A. Powell. "The USO's tradition is to be wherever troops are located around the world, and opening this center helps us to continue that tradition."

Based at Camp Ali Al Salem, the new 2,400-square foot, retro-themed facility is expected to serve 1,700 military personnel from all service branches daily. The center will offer Internet and e-mail access, two movie viewing areas, telephones, a video gaming area with recliners, board games and a library.

The new center was made possible by contributions from AT&T, Harrah's Entertainment, National Air Cargo, PWC Logistics and individual donations. The Department of Defense also provided support for the center.

The USO currently operates 124 centers around the world, providing free e- mail and Internet access, international phone cards, libraries, and travel assistance. USO affiliates in the United States provide support to service members as well as their families left behind. USO centers in Europe provide support to troops deploying to the Persian Gulf and the wounded returning to the United States for treatment.