USO Yokosuka Re-Grand Opening: A Morning to Remember!

What a celebration! On Friday, January 23, 2026, the USO Yokosuka reopened its doors with a re-grand opening event that brought together the entire community for a morning filled with music, furry friends, delicious food, and plenty of smiles. The highlight of the morning was our ribbon-cutting ceremony. CFAY Captain Hopkins, Juliet Domingo, USO Japan Area Director, and Center Operations Manager Fernanda Schroeder had the honor of cutting the ribbon together. Together, the trio officially welcomed everyone back to their home away from home.

The timing couldn’t have been better; our re-grand opening happened just a week before the USO’s 86th birthday! It’s the perfect way to celebrate over eight decades of serving those who serve. USO Yokosuka was also honored to welcome some incredible military leaders who joined us for the celebration, including Command Master Chief Hunt, CDR Rob Clarkson from USS RALPH JOHNSON (DDG 114), CAPT Dave Huljack (Commodore of Destroyer Squadron FIFTEEN), Captain Torrin Velazquez from Navy Medicine Readiness, and Robert Wimes, Fire Chief of Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka.

The 7th Fleet Band’s Shonan Brass Quintet brought the house down with live performances. There’s nothing like live music to set the perfect mood for a celebration! The real VIPs of the day were therapy dogs Penny and Rookie! These adorable pups were on hand, spreading joy and collecting pets from everyone who stopped by. No celebration is complete without food! Guests enjoyed a spread of wonderful breakfast treats throughout the morning. A huge shout-out and special thanks to the commissary for partnering with us to make it all happen. Community support makes it all possible. We were thrilled to have representatives from our amazing sponsors in attendance, including the University of Maryland global Campus in Asia, and AMERICABLE. We also welcomed potential new sponsors who came to learn more about the USO. It takes a village, and we are so grateful for the community support that keeps our doors open.

The re-grand opening is just the beginning. The USO Yokosuka is here to serve as your home away from home, a place to relax, connect with friends, enjoy programs and events, and feel supported throughout your time in Japan.

Stop by and see us soon. We can’t wait to welcome you!