Finding human connection in support of U.S. service members

STATEPOINT – In order to honor the sacrifices and contributions of the people who serve in the U.S. military, it’s important to recognize the human aspect of military service, and that includes acknowledging the importance of the support networks and camaraderie that boost morale throughout their journey.

The USO is continuing its long history of bridging understanding between service members and civilians with its “Human to Human” campaign, which is intended to build empathy for the sacrifices made by service members and their families, and to highlight the human aspect of military service.

As part of the campaign, the USO brought together seven pairs of strangers at the Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport. Each pair consisted of one service member and one civilian, asking each other questions printed on cards the USO provided. As they sat across from one another, neither knew what role the other played.

The conversations were surprising, powerful and unifying, with moments of realization, connection and even a few tears. Civilians who participated say they walked away from the experience with a new understanding of how service members find strength in the support of others.

Here are a few ways you can join the USO in supporting U.S. military members:

• Send a message of gratitude and support to those who serve.

• Watch the “Human to Human” video to experience the connection between service members and civilians when they discover they are more alike than they expected.

• Spread awareness and show appreciation for the people who serve in America’s military in person and online.

• Make a donation to the USO to help support programming that benefits members of the military, and to receive a USO T-shirt, so you can showcase that you’re a military supporter.

• Learn more and take action at USO.org/humantohuman.