Chief of National Guard Bureau Recognizes USO's Vital Support for Military Members

Photo By Sgt. 1st Class Roberto Di Giovine | U.S. Air Force Gen. Steven S. Nordhaus, 30th Chief of the National Guard Bureau and a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, visits the South Carolina National Guard Army Aviation Support Facility located at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, South Carolina, March 12, 2025. The purpose of the visit is to engage with the local leadership, recognize excellence, and observe key operations. Accompanying him on the visit was Senior Enlisted Advisor, John T. Raines, SEA to the chief, National Guard Bureau. During his time at McEntire Joint National Guard Base, Gen. Nordhaus met with senior leaders from both the South Carolina Army and Air National Guard. His visit primarily focused on the 1st Battalion, 151st Attack Reconnaissance Regiment, where he received a mission brief on the unit’s capabilities and ongoing operations. The 1-151st ARB, a premier Apache helicopter attack battalion, plays a critical role in both state and federal missions. Gen. Nordhaus’ visit underscored the importance of strong leadership, unit readiness, and the critical missions performed by the South Carolina National Guard. His engagement with Soldiers and Airmen reinforced the National Guard’s commitment to excellence and operational effectiveness at home and abroad.(U.S. Army National Guard photo Sgt. 1st Class Roby Di Giovine)  

UNITED STATES

03.13.2025

Story by Maj. Karla Evans 

South Carolina National Guard

McEntire Joint National Guard Base, S.C. — On March 12, 2025, McEntire Joint National Guard Base in South Carolina hosted a distinguished visitor, General Steven S. Nordhaus, the 30th Chief of the National Guard Bureau. Accompanied by Senior Enlisted Advisor John T. Raines, SEA to the Chief, National Guard Bureau.

The distinguished visitors met with the South Carolina National Guard leadership to discuss key initiatives, recognize outstanding achievements, and gain insight into the base's vital operations.

During their visit, Nordhaus and Raines made a special stop at the USO hospitality area. The USO is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing comfort and support to military members and their families. The National Guard chief's visit was a testament to his appreciation for the tireless efforts of all USO teams, who work diligently to create a welcoming environment for service members.

U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Van McCarty, Adjutant General for South Carolina, introduced General Nordhaus and Command Sergeant Major Raines to Katie Kennedy, Area Operations Manager, and Joanie Thresher, USO South Carolina Executive Director. McCarty praised the USO for their invaluable contributions to boosting morale in the state, noting, "The USO is a piece of home when we are away from home." This sentiment underscores the significance of the USO in providing a sense of comfort, community, and belonging to service members separated from their loved ones.

The meeting between Nordhaus, Kennedy, and Thresher demonstrated the general's commitment to recognizing and supporting the vital work of the USO.

Kennedy expressed her gratitude for the Nordhaus' time, stating, "It meant a lot for General Nordhaus to take the time to talk to us. We do what we do because we appreciate our men and women in uniform. It's nice to know leaders like General Nordhaus appreciate our efforts."

The visit was a powerful reminder of the importance of collaboration and appreciation between military leaders and organizations like the USO, which play a critical role in supporting military members and their families.

• Date Taken: 03.13.2025
• Date Posted: 03.13.2025 19:05
• Story ID: 492817
• Location: US