Volunteer Spotlight: USO Alaska

By Kristen Loflin

Share on Facebook Tweet on Twitter

The USO proudly supported more than 40 percent of service members in 2024 through programs and services at one of our 250 plus centers or through expeditionary efforts and outreach operations around the world. Though the organization employs over 600 passionate individuals, the expansive reach of the USO cannot happen without the vital network of our volunteers.

In the USO Indo-Pacific region, our volunteer force can be found in Alaska to Korea. They range from active and retired military personnel to dependents and more– both human and canine! No matter how long they have been a part of the USO family, every single volunteer plays a significant role in mission delivery.

Join us all week long as we share spotlights of some of the men and women who are the true backbone and heartbeat of the USO Indo-Pacific region.

USO Alaska

As one of two states not part of the continuous U.S., service members in Alaska can find themselves a significant distance from home despite still technically located in the country. For some it may even feel a little foreign. The state’s cold climate, distance from the mainland and large size all contribute to some of the challenges faced by our military community located in the area. With only two physical centers located at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage and Fort Wainwright in Fairbanks, the USO Alaska team has a robust expeditionary program to bring USO support to service members located in other areas of the state – efforts that rely heavily on volunteers. Today, we spotlight one of Alaska’s expeditionary force:

Ann Marshall

Location: Fort Greely, AK

Ann has been a crucial volunteer for USO Alaska when executing programs to the Fort Greely military community. | Photo credit USO Photo

Length of service: Volunteering for almost two years, previously served as a USO volunteer at USO Hampton Roads at Fort Eustis, VA.

What inspired you to volunteer?

We are in a remote, isolated part of Alaska and geographically separated from A LOT of resources, especially the usual military agencies we are used to seeing, making Fort Greely a significantly more vulnerable population. The USO was a great way for me to bring my favorite parts of the military life - community and camaraderie - to Fort Greely.

What is your favorite part about being a volunteer?

Being able to bring smiles to the faces of soldiers and their families and passing out hot drinks and snacks at -35 degrees to our troops will make ME smile every time!

Is there a particular favorite moment or memory from volunteering

Every single opportunity I have had to serve with the USO has filled my heart bucket! Reading to toddlers, Month of the Military Child Ball 2025, passing out food at JPMRC, hosting Coffee Connections, bringing Bingo and Baby Showers here… it’s been an amazing adventure for this Rugged USO Volunteer!

Volunteer Today!

Ann is just one of the dedicated and passionate individuals helping our teams support those who are serving throughout the Indo-Pacific. If you are interested in welcoming guests, packing and delivering snack bags, helping with various programs or more in support of those sacrificing for our country, becoming a USO volunteer may be perfect for you! Learn how you can begin your journey here.

More from USO