{"id":412,"date":"2016-02-04T20:55:57","date_gmt":"2016-02-04T20:55:57","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/flyjacksonville.com\/jetstream\/?p=412"},"modified":"2016-02-04T20:56:07","modified_gmt":"2016-02-04T20:56:07","slug":"uso-proudly-serving-those-who-serve","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/flyjacksonville.com\/jetstream\/uso-proudly-serving-those-who-serve\/","title":{"rendered":"USO \u2013 Proudly Serving Those Who Serve"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The birthday cake was cut during an official cake cutting ceremony.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

2016 marks a significant milestone for one of the country\u2019s most recognizable and impactful military service groups \u2013 the USO.<\/p>\n

The United Service Organizations, or USO, is celebrating 75 years of providing comfort to generations of military service members.<\/p>\n

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Both the USO’s main center and quiet room are located in the baggage claim area at JAX.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

The USO\u2019s presence at JAX goes back almost 10 years. Every year, over 35,000 service members and their families can find a comfortable space in the airport while waiting to catch a flight or a ride to a base.<\/p>\n

There is a main center that provides a home-like setting with comfortable furniture, a fireplace, TV, computer center, eating area and free snacks. For those needing a place to stretch out for a rest during longer delays, there is a quiet room with full reclining chairs.<\/p>\n

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Living room area inside the JAX Airport USO.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Computers are also available for use in the USO.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

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The Jacksonville Aviation Authority donated both spaces in baggage claim. A local interior decorator donated her services along with her suppliers and the group, Builders Care, performed the work. Three years ago the Armed Forces Family Foundation donated new floors and appliances.<\/p>\n

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The USO at JAX offers service members a “quiet room” to stretch out and relax during delays.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n

USO Jacksonville Airport is completely staffed by volunteers and fully supported by donations from the community. Because of their dedication, the JAX center is open from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., every day of the year.<\/p>\n

All snacks come from the generous citizens of Jacksonville and surrounding area. There are groups and clubs that help our traveling military through fund raising and collecting snacks and drinks to keep the airport\u2019s USO center stocked.<\/p>\n