USO program helps keep families close Published April 14, 2008 By Senior Airman Brian Butkus 375th Airlift Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE -- The USO of Missouri, Base Library and the Airman and Family Readiness Center are launching a new program aimed at keeping deploying servicembers and their families closer during the months apart. The new program, United Through Reading, allows deploying Airmen the opportunity to record themselves reading books on video prior to their departure. After filming, a DVD is produced and sent to their home, along with a copy of the book that was read during the taping. The idea behind the program is that once the parent is gone, the child can still see the absent family member and read along with them on the DVD. "It is through this program that children can remain in contact with their deployed parents and always have a fresh image of them, knowing they are okay," said Betty Mohlenbrock, Family Literacy Foundation founder and president, and creator of the program. "Most of the time mothers and fathers take advantage of the program, however, there is no restriction. The program can be utilized by siblings, grandparents, cousins, aunts and uncles and other parental figures." The United Through Reading program will kick-off at the Base Library April 24 at 11:30 a.m., where the Mobile USO Unit will be on site to provide video support and refreshments. After the kick-off event, regular tapings will be held at the Base Library every second and fourth Thursday of the month from 2 to 6 p.m. Information courtesy of the USO of Missouri.