Defense Secretary Gates Recognizes USO-Metro for Its Service to Wounded Warriors

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates kicked off the start of the president's summer service initiative "United We Serve" at Walter Reed Army Medical Center (WRAMC) on Monday. The USO of Metropolitan Washington (USO-Metro) was one of five organizations that met privately with Sec. Gates.

In the meeting Sec. Gates emphasized that beyond the war effort, there is no greater cause than improving the care of wounded troops and their families. Sec. Gates recognized the participating organizations as model examples of the work that must be done to support wounded warriors and their families. USO-Metro President Elaine Rogers and John Marselle, Chairman of the Board of USO-Metro, were presented with coins to recognize USO-Metro's contribution to the patients, patients' families and staff at Walter Reed. Later Sec. Gates participated in a ceremony and reception in the Mologne House Gardens to thank volunteers.

"The work being done by organizations such as those represented here and by compassionate and selfless citizens across the nation is invaluable in creating an atmosphere that promotes ... fun, optimism and intense rapid regrowth," said Secretary Gates.

Elaine Rogers, president of USO-Metro added, "We are honored to have Secretary Gates make time to recognize USO-Metro and all of our amazing volunteers. It means so much."

The USO of Metropolitan Washington supports service members and their families who are recovering and receiving treatment at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, the National Naval Medical Center and Warrior Transition Units at Ft. Meade, Ft. Belvoir and the McGuire Richmond VAMC. USO-Metro serves recovering troops through various programs including:

* Celebrity Handshake Tours
* Therapeutic programs
* Emergency Housing
* Patient Excursions
* Texas Hold Em' Tournaments
* On-site BBQs and Concerts
* Emergency Services
* United Through Reading
* Food assistance
* Concerts
* Time for You
* Holiday Hotel