SPONSORED CONTENT -- (StatePoint) Looking to show your appreciation for U.S. service men and women?

One tangible way to support members of the military, as well as display your appreciation for their sacrifices, is through the USO T-shirt campaign, that runs throughout the month of May. The USO -- The Force Behind the Forces -- is a nonprofit organization that strengthens the military by connecting service members to family, home, and country. Given the unprecedented challenges brought upon by the COVID-19 pandemic, the work of the USO is more valued by the military than ever before.

In addition to raising funds for the USO’s important mission, this annual campaign also helps to bridge the military-civilian divide. Each year, thousands of service members stationed around the world vote on a design for the USO T-shirt campaign, which is known as the “official uniform of the military supporter.” Now in its 11th year, the campaign is a meaningful way for Americans to do more than say simply say “thank you,” by donating and actually being part of the effort to support the military, and according to those who serve, it can also boost morale.

“Seeing someone wear the USO T-shirt lets me know that they care about me, my family, and the military,” says USO’s Christopher Plamp, senior vice president for Operations, Programs and Entertainment. “It’s a simple gesture that means so much. I encourage Americans to get a shirt and demonstrate their support for the military. It’s a great way to show thanks to our Armed Forces.”

To learn more, as well as to donate and receive a shirt to show your support, visit www.uso.org/uniform. Donations to the USO go toward mobile and center operations, programs and entertainment, transition services, and more. “Anyone can take meaningful action to change the lives of military service members for the better,” says Plamp. “One concrete way to do so is by actively expressing your gratitude and support for members of the military and their families, at home and abroad during this campaign.”

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Photo Credit: (c) USO photos