As the holidays approach, thousands of American service members will be far from home, deployed around the world, standing watch, and ensuring our nation’s safety. The USO, nearly marking 85 years, continues to be a bridge. A bridge to home—delivering comfort, connection, and care when it matters most.Now, under the leadership of Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Linnington, the USO is entering a powerful new chapter, one that honors its enduring legacy while reimagining ways to support the people who serve and their families in today’s military.Few leaders understand service and sacrifice like Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Michael Linnington. A 35-year U.S. Army veteran, he has spent his life leading soldiers and supporting their families, from the front lines to the Pentagon. After retiring from active duty, he became the first civilian director of the Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, championing the effort to bring every missing service member home. Later, as CEO of the Wounded Warrior Project, Linnington guided a major transformation that expanded programs and strengthened the nonprofit’s impact nationwide.Now, as CEO of the USO, Linnington steps in at a defining moment. In 2026, the USO will celebrate its 85th birthday as America celebrates its 250th, two milestones that highlight a shared legacy of service, resilience, and unity. Linnington’s vision is to ensure that wherever service members go, the USO goes with them. From installations and airports to ships at sea and remote deployments around the globe.