Naval Technology

USS Ronald Reagan unveils USO centre to boost morale

In collaboration with the USO, USS Ronald Reagan inaugurated a unique centre aboard the aircraft carrier aimed at enhancing the well-being of sailors during deployments.

To foster crew morale and alleviate the strains of extended deployments, the USS Ronald Reagan introduced an addition to its amenities: a ship-based United Services Organisation (USO) centre.

This newly unveiled space, nestled within the Command Religious Ministry Department spaces, offers sailors a respite from the rigours of naval life with a host of modern comforts.

Captain Daryle Cardone, the commanding officer of Ronald Reagan, emphasised the significance of this initiative, highlighting its role in bolstering both readiness and crew welfare. "This space is very much a place to learn and grow, a place that is comfortable, and at the same time, it's a place that doesn't look like the rest of the ship," stated Capt. Cardone. "When you're underway for months at a time, having a place that you can go...is crucial not only to our readiness but our health and wellness as a crew."

The ship-based USO centre, equipped with a revamped lounge, an upgraded theatre, a newly stocked library and internet café, TVs, and gaming systems, mirrors the amenities found at its land-based counterparts.

Navy. Scott Maskery, regional vice president for the USO Indo-Pacific regional office, hailed the initiative as a testament to the commitment of both organisations to enhance the quality of life for service members. "This ship-based USO centre clearly demonstrates how we are supporting Sailors, Marines and service members serving aboard one of America's premier power projection platforms," remarked Maskery.

The inauguration of the USO centre aboard USS Ronald Reagan expands the reach of the USO's hospitality, furthering its mission of supporting service members across all domains of operation.

The USS Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group (CSG), including the USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76) aircraft carrier, made a return to the Indo-Pacific region with port visits in both Busan, South Korea, in September 2022, and Manila, Philippines, in October 2023. In Busan, the CSG conducted maritime drills alongside Republic of Korea (ROK) ships in response to North Korean threats.