We’re so proud to announce the opening of our eleventh center in Southwest Asia: USO Kandahar! This 8,200 square-foot facility is expected to serve more than 35,000 troops each year on Kandahar Airfield, including those traveling to and from forward operating bases in the region. USO Kandahar is located in the Reception, Staging, Onward movement, and Integration (RSOI) compound and is open 20 hours a day.
Commander 643rd Regional Support Group, Colonel Chris R. Gentry had this to say about the opening: “The USO’s presence on KAF is a much-anticipated event. They bring a little piece of home to everyone they touch. We are very grateful for their support of all our service members and look forward to a long and successful collaboration together.”
Twenty computer stations, eleven Sony PlayStation™ 3 video gaming systems, 52-inch televisions, books and a music room will entertain troops during their free time. The center also offers 18 telephones for troops to call home at no expense on the USO’s private telephone network. Troops will also be able to participate in one of the most popular programs – United Through Reading’s Military Program – which will be available in three recording rooms. All programs and services offered at USO Kandahar are free to troops.
“It is a real honor to be a part of the team to bring the first full-service USO in Afghanistan to Kandahar,” said Larry Cooke, director, USO Kandahar. “This has been a true partnership with the US Garrison Support Group and many other units on KAF. My deep appreciation goes out to each one of them. I know this center will play a key role in the lives of our service men and women serving in this region.”
For individuals and corporations looking for more information or to make a donation, contact Larry Cooke at (202) 747-2792 or via email. And be sure to visit USO Kandahar’s Facebook page for many more photos of grand opening festivities and the new center in action!