USO hosts BBQ to show appreciation for PMO

Photo By Cpl. Mark Watola | Marines with the Provost Marshal Office enjoyed southern cuisine provided by the USO of North Carolina Jacksonville Center and Mission BBQ at the Robey Room at PMO aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Sept. 15. The Marines relaxed and bonded before going on their shift guarding the gate and patrolling as the first line of defense for everyone aboard base.  

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, UNITED STATES

09.15.2014

Story by Lance Cpl. Mark Watola 

Marine Corps Installations East       

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - The USO North Carolina Jacksonville Center and Mission BBQ showed their appreciation for Marines of the Provost Marshal Office during a BBQ aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Sept. 15 and Sept. 17.

The two-day event was held to ensure each shift of PMO had the opportunity to enjoy food. Marines of PMO work long shifts, therefore making unit gathering a challenge.

“The BBQ is an opportunity for the USO to show their support for Marines assigned to PMO,” said Lt. Col. David Hyman, commanding officer of 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion and Tampa, Florida, native. “It’s a great event because the Marines because it brings together the Marines of PMO.”

The Marines dined on pulled pork, brisket and cold slaw, as well as sweet tea and lemonade provided by Mission BBQ. The USO brought Girl Scout cookies and other snacks for the Marines.

“The meal provides the Marines food, puts a smile on their face and is something to brighten their day,” said Marisa Reeder, assistant director at the USO of North Carolina Jacksonville Center and Unityville, Pennsylvania native. “Whether the Marines are going on or coming off a long shift, we can put a smile on their face and serve some food.”

In June the USO, PMO and local businesses organized a breakfast for the Marines. Now, the USO and PMO They plan to hold the BBQ quarterly.

“The mission of the USO is to lift the spirits of America’s troops and their families,” said Reeder. “We want to give back to service members since they’ve volunteered to serve their country. The least we can do is provide them a meal and thank them for what they do.”

• Date Taken: 09.15.2014
• Date Posted: 09.28.2014 20:07
• Story ID: 143529
• Location: MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, NC, US
• Hometown: TAMPA, FL, US
• Hometown: UNITYVILLE, PA, US