Dear Friends,
This year I have been recognized by the USO San Diego as the Honoree at the
78th Annual Stars and Stripes Gala: Stand Up for Liberty, which takes place
Saturday, May 18, 2019, at the Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina.
I am fortunate to live in our beautiful community and in this nation, and I believe it
is our duty and responsibility to honor and assist those men and women who
sacrifice their well-being and lives on our behalf.
Last year, USO San Diego helped more than 253,000 active military members and their families, served more than 31,000
meals and provided more than 5,500 toys to deserving children of our service members. USO San Diego’s 1,200+ volunteers
showed their loving care by donating more than 52,000 hours of their time, as the organization continued its commitment to
strengthening America’s military personnel by keeping them connected to family, home and country, throughout their service
to the nation.
This is an amazing number of lives who benefit from the dedicated and compassionate support of people like you; proud
Americans who cherish our military, the men and women who represent the best and bravest amongst us around the world.
I truly believe in philanthropy, and I have personally witnessed and embraced the good it does for our community. Our goal
this year for USO San Diego is to raise $1 million. This will provide food and programs to support active duty military members
in our region. I would like to encourage you to match the funds we raise for the evening and help support our Armed Forces
here in San Diego with a very special gift from very special friends. I will be the first to thank you and applaud you.
Sincerely,
Ernest Rady
UNITED STATES COAST GUARD SECTOR SAN DIEGO
The U.S. Coast Guard's core mission is to ensure our Nation's maritime safety,
security and stewardship. Designated the "Guardians of the Southwest," U.S.
Coast Guard Sector San Diego protects the vast expanse between the U.S.
Mexico Border, Dana Point, CA, extending inland to include the waterways in
Arizona, and parts of Utah and Nevada. Sector San Diego's personnel conduct
missions such as Search and Rescue, Law Enforcement, Drug Interdiction, Port
and Waterways Security, Marine Environmental Protection and Aids to
Navigation management within this area to protect marine life, natural resources
and people on the water. Their tireless efforts provide safety and security for all
residents in Southern California.
The photo on the right is of U.S. Coast Guard Sector San Diego. Built in 1936, the
Sector has been the central hub for all life-saving, anti-drug and migrant and
coastal protection operations for Southern California. Located just across from
San Diego International Airport, the Coast Guard continues to excel in their daily
role as guardians of the Southwest.
USO San Diego would like to thank the Coast Guard Sector San Diego for allowing
us to shoot this month's cover photo on a tarmac aboard the base.