USO attempting to change public image

ARLINGTON, Va., July 4 (UPI) -- A United Service Organizations official says U.S. residents should think beyond comedian Bob Hope when thinking of the non-profit group.

USO Vice President of Communications Mark Phillips said despite the organization's use of celebrities, the late comedian and USO contributor remains the first thing most residents think of when asked about USO efforts, CNN reported Saturday.

"The first thing out of their mouths is 'Bob Hope,'" Phillips said, referring to a public opinion survey conducted by the group. "And if they're not part of the military, the list stops there."

"We're primarily a volunteer organization," Phillips added regarding the 25,000 volunteers who help stage USO events.

Rachel Tischler, USO vice president for entertainment operations, told CNN while her organization's events have featured high-profile appearances by celebrities such as Toby Keith and Stephen Colbert, many others offer assistance sans media coverage.

"We have celebrities come to Bethesda Naval Hospital, Walter Reed... and they almost always insist we don't talk about (the visits)," Tischler said.