USO office at Indianapolis airport experiencing increased traffic

INDIANAPOLIS—Since before the United States entered World War II, the USO (United Service Organizations) has been a bridge between the American people and the U.S. military.

In times of peace and war, the USO has consistently delivered its special brand of comfort, morale and recreational services to service members and their families. A nonprofit, congressionally chartered, private organization, the USO relies on the generosity of individuals, organizations and corporations to support USO activities.

The USO of Indianapolis has maintained a presence at Indianapolis International Airport since the 1960s. Until recent years, the chapter maintained operations only a few hours per day, 2-3 days per week. But early in 2005, the Indianapolis USO operation increased its hours at the airport to 7 a.m. through 11 p.m., seven days per week.

With a major troop presence in Afghanistan and Iraq, as well as the growing importance of Camp Atterbury as both a deployment and re-deployment site for both countries, the USO operation at the airport has never been busier.

In addition, the USO facilities at the airport are undergoing a major remodeling effort. Officials with the Indianapolis USO expect the 2005 holiday season to be one of the busiest in the history of its office at the Indianapolis International Airport.