On this day in 1941, The United Service Organizations, the USO, is incorporated in New York, at the urging of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.

Those organizations were the Salvation Army, Young Men’s Christian Association, Young Women’s Christian Association, National Catholic Community Services, National Travelers Aid Association and the National Jewish Welfare Board.

This is their stated mission: 
“The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the nation.”

Lastly, though congressionally chartered, the USO is not part of the federal government. It remains a private organization that relies on generous contributions and volunteers.