New York, NY, June 9, 2008 – For her outstanding leadership, humanitarian efforts and uncompromising commitment to children’s health issues, the United Service Organization (USO) of Metropolitan New York awarded the high honor of “Woman of the Year” to environmental activist Deirdre Imus at its 42nd Annual Woman of the Year Luncheon in Manhattan in May.
"Deirdre is passionate and unwavering in her efforts to help children. Her common sense and compassion are second only to her energy and her drive – a hero by any measure," said David Jurist, president of Tomorrow’s Children’s Fund.
“The USO has a proud history of providing vital support for our brave military servicemen and women,” said Deirdre Imus. “I am extremely honored and humbled to be the recipient of this prestigious award.”
Each year, the USO honors several civilians and members of the armed forces for their leadership, dedication and distinction in their service to our country and their support of those serving in the military. The award pays tribute to women who have achieved success in their respective fields, have made a difference in the broader community and society as a whole, and inspires others to follow. Past recipients of the prestigious award include First Ladies Barbara Bush, Betty Ford and Lady Bird Johnson, Mrs. Douglas MacArthur, Mrs. Bob Hope, Shari Redstone, Kathie Lee Gifford and Brooke Shields.
Appreciation for U.S. Troops
Founded in New York, at the request of President Franklin D. Roosevelt on February 4, 1941, the United Service Organization provides human services to a greatly expanding defense establishment. “For 67 years, the USO has excelled in boosting moral, providing emotional support, emergency aid and counseling to the brave men and women defending our country,” stated Ms. Imus. “By supporting the USO’s mission we show our appreciation to America’s armed forces, who keep our country safe.”
Today, the USO perpetuates that historic mandate by being a beacon of help, shining out to the entire military community, from the youngest man or woman in basic training or boot camp, to Hospitalized Veterans of World War I, World War II, Korea, Vietnam and, most recently, Operation Desert Storm.
Also honored were Diana Taylor, Managing Director, Wolfensohn & Company, Vice Admiral Ann E. Rondeau, Deputy Commander of United States Transportation Command, and a service woman from each of the five branches of the armed forces: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines and Coast Guard.
"It's an honor to recognize these women each year,” said Brian Whiting, President and CEO, USO of Metropolitan New York. "The proceeds of this event will go to support the free USO programs and services such as deployment ceremonies and homecoming events, internet access and entertainment, and family support and connectivity programs. For service members from our area that are on duty around the world, the USO serves as the home base that troops and their families can rely on."
Deirdre Imus is the founder and President of the Deirdre Imus Environmental Health Center™ (www.dienviro.com), part of Hackensack University Medical Center (HUMC) in New Jersey, a 501 (c) (3) not-for-profit corporation. The Environmental Center represents one of the first hospital-based programs whose specific mission is to identify, control, and ultimately prevent exposures to environmental factors that may cause adult, and especially pediatric cancer, as well as other health problems with our children.
Ms. Imus is also co-founder and co-director of the Imus Cattle Ranch for Kids with Cancer, an authentic 4,000 acre working cattle ranch in northern New Mexico, which provides the experience of the American cowboy to children suffering from cancer and various blood diseases, as well as to children who have lost a brother or sister to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).
About the USO of Metropolitan New York: The mission of the USO of Metropolitan New York is to positively contribute to the morale and personal welfare of U.S. military personnel and their families who reside in, are stationed in, or are visiting the tri-state area. The USO helps channel the American public’s desire to give back to those who serve our country into programs and services that enrich their lives.