SAN DIEGO -- For the past 65 years the United Service Organizations Inc., better known as the USO, has strived to enhance the quality of life for service members in the U.S. Armed Forces and their families worldwide.

That mission carries on today much the same as it did  in 1941 when, in response to World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt commissioned the six original organizations to create what is now the USO.

“President Roosevelt wanted the men going overseas to know they were appreciated for the service they gave to their country and we want all of our service members to know we feel the same way (today),” said Jill Jones Mason, director of programs and public affairs, USO San Diego.

The USO San Diego, located at the corner of Third Avenue and A Street in downtown San Diego, offers many services and holds events throughout the year for service members stationed in the area or just passing through.

“We have two big screen TVs that service members can either catch the big game on or have a movie night with their friends,” said Emily Baker, director of marketing and development, USO San Diego. “We also have a library, wireless internet and computers hooked up to the internet for those who don’t have laptops.”

In addition to big screen entertainment and computer assets, the USO staff has generously sprinkled couches throughout the facility providing visitors the ideal spot to curl up with a book, chat with friends, or just catch a nap.

The USO also offers complimentary Tuesday-night dinners upstairs in the social hall. A play room connected to the social hall allows parents to visit and mingle with fellow visitors while still keeping a close eye on little ones.

The social hall isn’t only for Tuesday night dinners. Service members and their family members can reserve the social hall for any event. With a disc jockey booth and restaurant-style kitchen facility, events can range from baby showers to dance lessons to rehearsal dinners.

“Just about any event they (service members) can think of they can hold here,” said Jones Mason.

The USO organizes numerous events through out the year in addition to longstanding weekly events such as the Tuesday dinners. Some feature events include holiday fun with Thanksgiving feasts and visits from Santa, Super Bowl parties, and spa days.

For a complete calendar, contact the USO San Diego at  619-235-6503 or log on to  http://www.usosandiego.org.