USO welcomes military to JWA

Whether their destination is Orange County or a far-away place, John Wayne Airport just got a little more comfortable for the 50,000 military members and their families who pass through each year.

USO centers, which provide food, entertainment and a place to relax between flights, have welcomed troops and their families at airports across the United States for the past 73 years.

The Bob Hope USO, a non-profit organization that provides services to the members of the military and their families in Southern California, unveiled its newest center at JWA Monday afternoon.

Bob Hope USO also operates centers at Los Angeles, Ontario and Palm Springs international airports.

“Whether it’s by giving a service member some travel advice or providing them the hospitality the USO is famous for, we look forward to making their travels a little easier,” said Bob Kurkjian, executive director of Bob Hope USO.

Located in Terminal B, next to the baggage carousels, the 630-square-foot USO center is open to active and reserve military, as well as military retirees, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

The USO is equipped with couches, a fully stocked refrigerator, snacks, board games, books, movies, computers and video games, as well as a kiosk with the latest arrival and departure times.

Gen. Mark Malanka, who serves in the National Guard, was one of many servicemen and women who toured the USO for the first time.

“When they get off a plane, and they’re tired, for them to have a place to go just to relax at the airport is amazing,” he said. “It’s perfect.”