Dear USO Supporter,

I want to take this opportunity to wish you and your family a very merry Christmas. As the new CEO of the USO and as a retired 35-year solider, I am eternally grateful for the commitment, dedication and care you've shown to our service members. They're the backbone of our nation, and their service and sacrifice are why we can all celebrate freely today with our loved ones.

Our military service members faced great challenges this year: international tension, a government shutdown that put strain on tens of thousands of families, recovery efforts for natural disasters, deployments to areas they've never been to and time away from their families. Even when they're home, our heroes are always on standby, ready to drop everything for us.

At the USO, we take great pride in supporting our soldiers. We are there for them and their families, especially during the holidays. This is why I'm thankful for you today. You help us ensure that no soldier feels forgotten during Christmas — whether through a card to uplift them, a warm meal to remind them of home or internet access so they can call their families. You help us make the difference for them.

From all of us at the USO, thank you for the care you've shown our heroes. We wish you and your loved ones a very happy holiday season.

For the People Who Serve,

Michael S. Linnington
Lieutenant General, U.S. Army, Retired
Chief Executive Officer and President, USO