The USO was founded in 1941 by Mary Ingraham in response to a request from President Franklin D. Roosevelt to provide morale and recreation services to U.S. uniformed military personnel. Roosevelt was elected as its honorary chairman.
The USO was incorporated in New York on February 4, 1941
and brought together six civilian organizations under one umbrella to support U.S. troops.
the Salvation Army,
Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA),
Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA),
National Catholic Community Service,
National Travelers Aid Association and the
National Jewish Welfare Board.
and brought together six civilian organizations under one umbrella to support U.S. troops.
the Salvation Army,
Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA),
Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA),
National Catholic Community Service,
National Travelers Aid Association and the
National Jewish Welfare Board.
Thus… The 6 Stars in the USO Logo
Roosevelt said he wanted "these private organizations to handle the on-leave recreation of the men in the armed forces thus mission: boosting the morale of the military."
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The first national campaign chairman was NY Gov. Thomas Dewey. He raised $16 million in the first year.
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The second chairman was future senator Prescott Bush. The father and grandfather of 2 US Presidents.
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LOS ANGELES - AUGUST 13, 1944: CBS Radio
Mrs. Vincent Astor (Mary Benedict Cushing) and Prescott Bush, asks the public to help support the 1944 National War Fund Campaign. (Photo by CBS via Getty Images |
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May 31, 1942 BDE
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July 13, 1942, BDE
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June 17, 1942, Brooklyn Daily Eagle
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June 3, 1942, Brooklyn Daily Eagle
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February 13, 1942, BDE
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A windshield sticker similar to the one described.
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10/31/1941-New York, NY: Taking off from Mitchel Field, New York, in a U.S. Army bomber converted into a Flying Showboat for a two weeks tour of the Caribbean bases where they will present live shows for Army and Navy men. (Left to right) Eddie Dowling, President of camp shows. Ray Boldger, Dancer. Mitzi Mayfair, Musical comedy dancer. Louis Polanski, (L to R center) Stan Laurel, Comedian. Jane Pickens, singer. Benay Venute, radio songstress, in the rear John Garfield, screen player who will act as master of ceremonies L-- and Oliver Hardy film comedian. Camp Shows, Inc. affiliate of U.S.O. is sponsoring the trip.
