Members of the USO Troupe of Metropolitan
New York (l-r) are Emma Lampert,
Victoria Reed, Amanda Baker, and
Ellen Sowney. | USO Servicemen Salute New York’s Heroes Story and Photo by Tim Boxer  ILLIAM DODGE RUECKERT, chairman of the USO of Metropolitan New York awards dinner at the Plaza Hotel, presided over a gala evening that brought standing ovations and tears to one’s eyes during the stirring patriotic program.
From the presentation of the colors by the U.S. Armed Forces Joint Service Color Guard to the musical rendition of the United States Coast Guard Academy Choir, the black-tie guests reacted with emotional pride. The USO Troupe of Metropolitan New York, consisting of four beautiful and talented performers, sang a medley of patriotic melodies that was a joy to listen to. They even offered a salute to that ultimate USO trouper, Bob Hope, by singing Thanks for the Memories. The troupe is made up of Emma Lampert, Miss USO 2001; Ellen Sowney, Miss USO 1998; Victoria Reed, USO entertainment director, and Amanda Baker. They are delightful performers. USO of Metropolitan New York president R.J. Lobb, chairman Myron J. Berman and vice chairman Stephen J. Scheffer presented the USO Gold Medal Award to two gentlemen who truly deserve the recognition: Charles Steven Cohen, president/ceo of Cohen Brothers Realty Corp., and Lt. Gen. Daniel Christman (Ret.), president/executive director of the Kimsey Foundation. Since 1941, USO of Metropolitan New York has supported our men and women in uniform, providing them a home away from. Colin Powell was asked, on Meet the Press, what the average American can do to help in the current terrorist climate. The secretary of state replied: “Support the USO.” | 
