New USO position designed to offer additional support to grieving families

  • Published
  • By Christin Michaud
  • Michaud
DOVER AIR FORCE BASE, Del. --  The USO is bolstering its support for the Fisher House for Families of the Fallen with the creation of the Families of the Fallen support manager position.

This unique position is another example of how the USO has evolved, and developed new programs and services to meet the ever-changing needs of the troops and their families.

Families of the Fallen Support Manager, Wendy Fish, helps orchestrate the USO support to families of the fallen on their way to Dover Air Force Base to witness the dignified transfer of a loved one.

She coordinates with USOs at airports across the nation to make sure grieving families have any support they need along the way during their travels.

"It's important for families to know there are people who care and for us to give them as much support as we can give," said Mrs. Fish.

Whether it is to stop in and have a place to relax during a layover, or coordinating a wheelchair or other items, the support is just one more way to take care of families.

"Wendy has one of the toughest jobs in the USO because, when working with loved ones of the fallen, there is no room for error," said Jeff Hill, USO Regional vice president.
"Grieving family members require compassion and care as they make their way to Dover, and Wendy manages a staff that provides families of the fallen with whatever they need to help cope with these devastating losses."

Fallen servicemembers are transported on the first available aircraft departing from overseas. In many cases, families are leaving to travel to Dover with very little notice.

Ensuring minor details are taken care of during their travel is one way the USO can support the families who will stay at the Fisher House.

The Fisher House at Dover Air Force Base is designed to be a home away from home for families during their short stay here. With the help of Friends of the Fallen, a volunteer organization, the USO and the support outside agencies and individuals who donate to the USO, families have less to worry about when they get here - food and incidentals are provided for them.

The USO provides food and beverages to families at the Fisher House as well as the Center for Families of the Fallen through donations. The Friends of the Fallen provide other comfort items and toiletries that may be needed during their stay.

The Fisher House at Dover AFB was gifted to the Air Force from the Fisher House Foundation and is different from any other Fisher House including how it is supported.

"As a 'Friends of the Fallen' support group volunteer, Wendy gained valuable experience that prepared her for her current position," Mr. Hill said. "She's already implemented well thought out operating procedures that help to ensure the complete success of this essential USO mission."

The USO in line with their tradition of supporting troops for years, stepped in to provide oversight of the families who travel to the Fisher House and tend to their needs. The USO continues to lift the spirits of America's troops and their families, and will continue to be there for them until everyone comes home.