The USO during WWII
The USO was formed in 1940 out of 18 national organizations, including the YMCA, YWCA, Salvation Army, the National Jewish Welfare Board, National Catholic Community Service and travelers Aid-International with the intent of forming a wholesome recreation and moral supporting services to young Americans would soon be serving in the Armed Forces. With the help of the Federal goverment, they formed the USOND or United Service Organizations for the National Defense, which was officially established on February 4th, 1941.
With $15 million from the Federal government and another $15 million in private contributions, the new USO clubs were born as a home away from home for lonely servicemen.
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Also part of the USO were a several travling theaters or "Campshows" as they were called. The USO shows brought the talent to the GI's during WWII and continue that tradition today. Most traveling units had one or two major stars, and a few "B" entertainers that traveled in one of 119 different companies accross the United States, Europe and the Pacific. During WWII, many famous stars either got their start, or spent time on the USO circuit, touring sometimes just behind the front lines. Over 5,000 entertainers were on the USO's payroll at some point during WWII, including Mickey Rooney, Bing Crosby, Judy Garland, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller, and Marlene Dietrich.
