USO staff and volunteers throughout Europe, Middle East and Africa (EMEA) are always ready to support the people who serve, no matter where the mission takes them. In Western Europe, that support is being supercharged thanks to the generous support from Patriot Military Automobiles (PMA).

A custom-wrapped USO van, gifted to the USO by PMA, is making a substantial difference in the lives of service members stationed across Western Europe. Lisa Wease, the USO Area Operations Manager for Western Europe, explains,

“This isn’t just a vehicle; it’s a mobile hub of support. It’s critical for our ability to reach service members in remote areas and bring them a taste of home.”

The use of this vehicle was crucial during a USO Joint Expeditionary Trip (JET) visit to a port just outside Brugge, Belgium. “The vehicle was absolutely essential,” Lisa said. “We were able to load everything we needed for a BBQ for 300 people and it provided a comfortable ride. But what truly sets it apart is the branding. When service members see that red, white, and blue van rolling in, they know a great day is ahead.”

The USO mission isn’t just about barbecues, though. This vehicle serves as a versatile tool, equipped to carry people or cargo – ranging from USO Gaming equipment, USO Reading Program supplies and emergency resource deliveries.

For JET missions, road conditions or weather can be unpredictable in remote locations. The van’s reliability and built-in GPS give USO staff members peace of mind, knowing they can complete the mission safely.

Service members are so excited when they see the USO touch ground, especially in locations where they are nowhere near an installation with quality-of-life support. “On our last mission, they were amazed we’d found them in such a remote spot,” said Lisa. “It’s like seeing the ice cream truck pull up – they know the USO is here to brighten their day.”

USO staff host fun programs and attend events on Ramstein Air Base frequently with the van. The large trunk space proved useful during the inauguration of a new Heritage Room for the 86th Medical Group. Lisa and Konrad were able to bring hot dogs, burgers, games and cornhole to the event. Located in what was once a busy USO center, the room now serves as a sanctuary for service members to unwind and destress after a demanding week.

Beyond the practical benefits, the vehicle embodies the USO’s commitment to safety and well-being. “As a staff member, it’s comforting to have a reliable vehicle with hands-free features,” Lisa said. “And the high visibility of the wrapped van makes it a focal point for events, enhancing our ability to connect with service members.”

Previously, the USO Western Europe team relied on multiple older vehicles to transport supplies and personnel. The PMA van has streamlined their operations, allowing them to consolidate everything into one vehicle. “Without the PMA van, we wouldn’t have this level of capability,” Lisa said. “We’re incredibly grateful for their support.”

PMA’s generosity is a testament to their commitment to those who serve. Their donation has not only empowered the USO to expand its reach but has also sent a powerful message of appreciation to service members stationed far from home.

“Choosing to work alongside the USO was an easy choice for PMA,” said Simon J. Biddle, Patriot Military Automobiles Managing Director. “Their support for military service members and their families goes along with everything Patriot Military Automobiles believes in. PMA was formed out of positive mental attitude by its founders prior to becoming Patriot Military Automobiles and decided to keep that reminder as part of its logo. We are patriots!”

As the USO van continues its journey across Western Europe, it carries not just supplies and programs, but also a spirit of gratitude that fuels the USO’s mission. Thanks to Patriot Military Automobiles, that spirit is now rolling on four wheels, bringing comfort and connection to those who sacrifice so much for our freedom.

Each May, Military Appreciation Month brings an opportunity to pause and show appreciation for the sacrifice and dedication of our U.S. service members. Throughout the month, we recognize many members of the military community. In addition to remembering our fallen heroes on Memorial Day, we also celebrate military spouses and honor those currently serving on Military Spouse Appreciation Day and Armed Forces Day.

This Military Appreciation Month, the team at USO Spangdahlem along with our mission partner, Patriot Military Automobiles brought some additional support to service members stationed at Büchel Air Base in Germany. Many of these service members live and work away from larger military installations with amenities and support services commonly found on U.S. bases.

Before heading out, USO staff member, Oscar Pullido, and USO volunteer, Sadie Whaley, packed 70 goodie bags filled with energy bars and candy to hand out during the visit. Alongside them was Paul from Patriot Military Automobiles, who spent the day connecting with service members and showing appreciation for their service.

“Our focus is making sure Airmen, especially those in smaller or remote locations, still feel connected and supported,” said Oscar. “Even bringing something simple like games, food, or just time to relax together can really boost morale.”

Support from partners like Patriot Military Automobiles help make these moments possible, allowing the USO to continue reaching service members in smaller and more remote locations across the region. Many of the employees at Patriot Military Automobiles are veterans themselves, bringing firsthand experience and understanding to the military community they serve.

“As a veteran myself, with 22 years in the RAF, it means so much more to support and look after service members the way I would have liked to be looked after when I was in,” Paul said. “We’ve been there, done it, and experienced the challenges ourselves.”

For USO volunteer, Sadie, the visit carried an even more personal meaning as her husband Bryan actively serves at Büchel Air Base. What started as an opportunity to support service members also became a chance to give back to her own military community and spend time with family.

“Many military members spend long periods away from their loved ones, work under stressful conditions, and dedicate themselves to serving others,” said Sadie. “Simple gestures of gratitude, like what we were able to do today, can lift morale, create a sense of connection, and show that their community genuinely cares about them.”

“Supporting the USO and outreach events like these to our overseas Military Communities is what PMA is all about,” said Simon Biddle, Geschäftsführer for Patriot Military Automobiles GmbH. “As a team, many of Patriot Military Automobiles’ employees are Veterans or have a combined 100+ years of service to Military Communities, so PMA knows firsthand how important it is to feel connected and supported, especially at smaller, more remote locations like Büchel Air Base. Proudly Serving Those That Serve – we are Patriots!”

“Partners like Patriot Military Automobiles help us bring these moments to life,” said Oscar. “Their support allows us to reach more Airmen, support more events, and create experiences that remind service members that people truly care about them.”