Appreciation dinner highlights volunteers contributions to 'give a helping hand to Okinawa'

CAMP FOSTER, OKINAWA, Camp Foster – The United Service Organization on Camp Foster hosted a dinner for service members who volunteered a large amount of their time to community events throughout 2019, Aug. 20 on Camp Foster.

Service members who volunteered throughout the year were treated to a dinner to enjoy with friends, family, and co-workers. The USO itself assists in scheduling and providing transportation to and from volunteer events for military personnel stationed all across Okinawa. 

“We wanted to thank our service members and offer them free food,” said Ali Kwiatkowski, field programs manager with Camp Foster USO. “We wanted to make sure everyone could have an awesome meal after all the hard work they put in. We even bought food boxes so they could take food to-go.”

The dinner was accompanied by music and an award ceremony, offering awards for volunteer hour milestones for those who volunteered through the Camp Foster USO.

“It’s a blessing to have Marines stationed here that are so willing to give a helping hand to Okinawa.” said Cpl. Edward Jacksonwest, a motor vehicle operator with 3rd Transportation Support Battalion, Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3rd Marine Logistic Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force. “Many Marines work off the normal clock like military police for example. This gives them a chance to get together with their brothers and sisters. It boosts their spirits.”

The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home, and country, throughout their service to the nation.