Military Children in the Southeast Receive a Back-to-School Boost from the USO

By Barry Morris

As summer draws to a close, families across the nation are preparing for the back-to-school season.

For military families, this transition can be especially challenging due to frequent moves and deployments that come with military life. Recognizing these challenges, local USO Center staff and volunteers across the U.S. – and the globe – have stepped in to provide invaluable support to military children through programs and events. In Jacksonville, Florida, this specifically came in the form of their annual school supply distributions.

The USO coordinates with local military bases and community partners nationwide to organize school supply giveaways aimed at easing the burden placed on military families during these times of transition. These events also ensure that military children have the tools they need to succeed academically, as well as provide a morale boost for the youngest members of the military community, for whom transitions to new schools after a move can be especially difficult.

In one such event held at the USO Center at Naval Station Jacksonville, families gathered in anticipation as volunteers and USO staff prepared to distribute 153 backpacks filled with essential school supplies to military kids.

As the sun rose over Naval Station Jacksonville, children’s laughter filled the air, blending with the excitement of the day. U.S. Navy Petty Officer 3rd Class Allen Huckaby’s daughter Lilly, a cheerful soon-to-be-kindergartener, clutched his hand as they approached the USO Center.

“I can’t wait to see what’s inside the backpacks,” she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with curiosity.

“This is my first baby going into school,” said Lexy Huckaby, Lilly’s mother. “It’s so heartwarming to see her so excited about these school supplies.”

Inside the Center, tables were adorned with colorful backpacks brimming with supplies. As they moved through the crowd of their fellow military families, Lilly’s eyes lit up when she spotted a backpack that was just for her.

“I’m excited about my new backpack because it is pink and beautiful,” she said, as she eagerly examined the school supplies inside.

U.S. Navy Master Chief Jerid O’Brien, who was also in attendance with his family, was grateful for the USO’s support and this specific event.

“The USO has been such a blessing to our family. The fun programs, lunches, events and resources have been amazing for [us],” said Jerid.

Other locations throughout the Southeast region of the U.S. – as well as USO Centers abroad – also participated in school supply distribution events to support their local military communities.

USO Georgia supported the families of the 413th Force Support Flight during their annual back-to-school bash at Robins Air Force Base.

“It was exciting to see parents and families at Robins AFB stop by our set up and grab USO pencil pouches, snacks, and to play video games in the USO Mobile Southeast Sprinter Van,” said Christina Shively, area operations manager for USO Georgia.

Further south in Tampa, USO Central Florida staff and USO volunteers distributed over 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies to military families stationed at MacDill Air Force Base.

Events like school supply distributions not only provide practical support but also foster a sense of community among military families. By alleviating the stressors that accompany a new school year, the USO ensures that military families are ready for the year ahead while strengthening the well-being and academic success of military children.

As Lilly proudly wore her new backpack, ready to start the school year, her father shared that he felt a deep sense of gratitude for the USO and the community’s support.

“Thanks to USO for having this event. It really helps us as a lower enlisted family,” Allen said.

“Education is the strongest weapon to change the world. As we embark on this new school year let us honor the dedication and sacrifice of our military families, who inspire us to strive for excellence and resilience in all that we do,” said USO Center Operations Specialist Zola Foret of USO Naval Air Station Jacksonville.

“Together we will learn, grow, and serve our community with pride.”

With the unwavering support of organizations like the USO, as well as our partners and individual donors, military children know that we are always by their side, and they can embrace their next educational journey with confidence and joy, no matter where the military sends them.