ROCKLEIGH, NEW JERSEY — The Liberty USO Visitors Center at the Philadelphia International Airport recently held its ribbon cutting ceremony, marking the official reopening of this “home away from home” for thousands of America’s heroes. The Visitors Center is the first domestic stop for troops returning from active military service overseas, and where they may spend two or three days waiting for connecting flights home. Crestron Electronics is a proud sponsor of the USO, and has donated a customized touchpanel control solution to create a state-of-the-art theater system for returning military personnel and their families to enjoy during prolonged layovers.
The mission of the USO is to enhance the quality of life of U.S. Armed Forces and their families worldwide. Since its initial opening 25 years ago, the number of troops using the Liberty USO Visitors Center has grown immensely. When the center was granted a new, larger location at the airport, it also needed new furnishings. However, the USO does not receive government funding, completely relying on grants and the generosity of private citizens and corporations.
“We heard they were in need and felt strongly about making our servicemen and women feel appreciated, by giving them entertainment and comfort during their long trip home,” said Randy Klein, Executive Vice President of Crestron Electronics. “We have a tradition of giving back, through the Crestron Eagles Program, so we were excited to once again support our troops.”
While a comfortable bed, hot shower and broadband Internet service are all creature comforts for which the troops and their families are grateful, the modern home theater is probably the most popular room in the facility. Crestron donated a CP2 Control System and a TPS-4L Isys 3.6″ Wall Mount Touchpanel to deliver one-touch control of the DVD player, stereo receiver, television projector and satellite receiver in the 20-seat theater. This very special place allows these weary travelers and their families to relax and enjoy the latest HD movie, watch their favorite TV show or listen to music with surround sound in oversized leather seats — a much deserved respite from long flights or anxious rides in a Hum V.
About Liberty USO
The USO’s mission is to enhance the quality of life of the U.S.
Armed Forces personnel and their families worldwide and to create a cooperative relationship between U.S. military communities and involved or supporting civilian communities.
The USO of Pennsylvania and South Jersey, (Liberty USO) is a local affiliate and a privately funded, non-profit organization that has been serving the region’s armed forces and their families since 1941. During 2007, Liberty USO served more than 100,000 service personnel (active duty, guard and reserve) and their families.
About Crestron
For nearly 40 years Crestron has been the world’s leading manufacturer of advanced control and automation systems, innovating technology to simplify and enhance modern lifestyles and businesses. Offering integrated solutions to control audio, video, computer, and environmental systems, Crestron streamlines technology, improving quality of life in commercial buildings, universities, hotels, hospitals and homes.
In addition to its World Headquarters in Rockleigh, New Jersey, Crestron has sales and support offices throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, Middle East, Asia, Latin America and Australia.
# # #
