Serving those who serve has always been the core cause of the USO. In Boerne and San Antonio—cities deeply rooted in military tradition—it’s a cause that resonates. As we celebrate Independence Day, we spoke with Heather Krauss, Executive Director of the USO San Antonio, to talk about community, connection, and how all of us can support our heroes and their families.
(Responses edited for length and clarity)
What is the mission of the USO?
The mission of the USO is to strengthen the well-being of the people serving in America’s military and their families. Due to the nature of the vast array of military missions required of service members, the USO offers critical support customized to the needs of service members in their local areas. Dedicated teams of staff and volunteers deliver the USO mission to meet the needs of service members and their families wherever they go.
Why is the work of the USO essential?
The USO is the constant companion of service members and their families, because even the strongest among us need someone by their side. Since 1941, the USO has had a singular goal: to strengthen the well-being of America’s military service members and their families. For the past 84 years, the USO has accomplished its mission by delivering innovative programs, morale-boosting services, and engaging entertainment demonstrating America’s gratitude for their commitment and sacrifice.
Today’s service members need the care, comfort, connection, and support that can only be provided by an organization that is with them at every point of their military journey, wherever they serve. With more than 250 USO locations globally and via our innovative expeditionary programming, USO Mobile vehicle fleet, Military Virtual Programming, and our close coordination with U.S. military leadership, we can maintain a constant and significant presence in the lives of those who are serving our country and their families by providing a continuum of care at every step of the way.
How does the USO support military members and their families? Are there local programs that are particularly important?
The USO serves all active-duty, Reserve, and Guard members of the U.S. Army, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marine Corps, Navy, and Space Force, as well as their spouses and children. We support them throughout their military journey.
USO programs include the well-known entertainment tours and USO centers around the world, but there’s a lot more to our work. The USO at San Antonio delivers programs and services through its six local centers across Joint Base San Antonio, each focused on the unique needs of the populations they serve.
Some of our local programs include:
- Warrior and Family Support Center. A cornerstone of resiliency for wounded, ill, and injured service members, caregivers, and families.
- Military Youth & Family Programs. Tailored for the unique needs of military families, these programs promote learning, creativity, and quality time together. From storytime and crafts to cultural outings and family events, the focus is on bonding and resilience.
- Holiday Programs. While many celebrate holidays with loved ones, military families often spend these times apart. The USO helps bring the joy of the season to them—through festive celebrations, gift programs, and events that create memories and foster connection.
- Canine Comfort Program. Because sometimes the best therapy has four legs. The USO’s Canine Program brings certified therapy dogs to centers, events, and Warrior and Family Centers, providing emotional support and companionship for service members and families.
- Care Package Program. For deployed troops or those training in austere environments, a thoughtfully packed USO Care Package can make all the difference. Filled with snacks, hygiene items, and messages of support, they’re a tangible reminder that someone back home cares.
How can the broader community contribute to the USO’s work?
Volunteerism is essential to the USO service delivery. Visit our local website to learn more about getting involved and ways to support, and our local social media sites also provide information on upcoming programs and opportunities. It’s a great way to give back or pay it forward to the local military population in the greater San Antonio area.
sanantonio.uso.org | facebook.com/USO.SanAntonio | @usosanantonio
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Since 1941, the USO has had a singular goal: to strengthen the well-being of America’s military service members and their families.
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Supporting the USO is a great way to give back or pay it forward to the local military population in the greater San Antonio area.