U.S. Space Force Chief of Space Operations Gen. John W. “Jay” Raymond, Chief Master Sergeant of the Space Force Roger A. Towberman, and actor/author Kal Penn, on break from touring for his current memoir “You Can’t Be Serious,” brought holiday cheer to Guardians and Airmen at two locations, including Thule Air Base – located just 450-miles south of the North Pole.
“Our men and women are working day and night to keep Americans safe and ensure space capabilities are always available in support of daily life and the joint force,” said Raymond. “Visiting these servicemembers and government civilians is just one small way of showing our appreciation for their dedication to the Space Force mission and to the nation.”
The Space Force will be celebrating its second birthday in December. The tour to Thule Air Base and New Boston Space Force Station gave General Raymond the opportunity to meet directly with those who are stationed at some remote installations. And at Thule, General Raymond saw first-hand how Guardians and Airmen weathered the harsh conditions, serving a one-year, unaccompanied tour.
Penn remarked that he was humbled and inspired by their commitment, especially when separated from their loved ones during the holiday season.
“I’m honored to volunteer with the USO and spend time with our women and men in uniform again,” Penn said. “I have such a heartfelt respect for the sacrifices they and their families make in service to our great nation. It was very special to visit with them, share stories, and express my gratitude.”
Penn is an actor, writer, producer, and is known for his starring roles in Designated Survivor, House, Mira Nair’s The Namesake, the Harold & Kumar franchise, and the patriotic immigration sit-com Sunnyside which he co-created for NBC.
Over the last year, the USO has delivered entertainment to nearly 100,000 service members and their families through a combination its in-person and Military Virtual Programming. This is the first time that the USO has worked with the military’s newest branch to provide in-person entertainment.
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About the USO:
The USO strengthens America’s military service members by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service to the Nation. At hundreds of locations worldwide, we are united in our commitment to connect our service members and their families through countless acts of caring, comfort and support. The USO is a private nonprofit organization, not a government agency. Our programs, services and entertainment tours are made possible by the American people, support of our corporate partners and the dedication of our volunteers and staff. To join us in this important mission and learn more about the USO, please visit USO.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
About the Space Force:
The United States Space Force is a separate and distinct branch of the armed services, organized under the Department of the Air Force in a manner very similar to how the Marine Corps is organized under the Department of the Navy.
Media Contacts:
Dan Drummond
ddrummond@uso.org
202-243-8621
Col. Mary Catherine “Catie” Hague
703-695-0640
mary.hague@us.af.mil
