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NEW YORK— It was a magical morning.

On Nov. 24, the USO teamed up with Broadway star Idina Menzel to help three military families kick off their holiday season with songs, smiles and laughter at a special USO meet-and-greet.

“Each family had the most adorable children,” Menzel said. “I got to get to know them a little bit and tell them how much I appreciate the sacrifices they make.

“I also recognize how difficult the holidays can be when they’re apart, so any kind of laughter or joy I could bring to the situation was nice.”

Menzel also took a moment during the meet-and-greet to thank troops for their sacrifice and service.


In addition to meeting Menzel and getting VIP access to her Bloomingdale’s Holiday Concert and Window Unveiling show, the families enjoyed a day full of food and fun in New York City, including a pizza lunch and a trip to Dylan’s Candy Bar.

“It’s been great that I’ve been able to experience these things,” said Michelle Moore, a military spouse attending the day’s events. “My husband’s in Bahrain and all my kids, especially my son, he says he misses his dad a lot. And it’s really nice when we can do other things that are cool and interesting to make the time go faster.”

Check out the video below to see the entire day’s events.

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TIix6YOmU-c&w=560&h=315]