The Canteen opened a year ago to provide a second location at O'Hare for military personnel and their families to relax, get a bite to eat and check email. The USO also has a location at Midway International Airport.

"On behalf of Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, I would like to congratulate the USO on the one-year anniversary of the Cyber Canteen and commend the USO and American Airlines for making it possible to serve the countless military personnel who come through Chicago's airports each day," said Chicago Department of Aviation Commissioner Rosemarie S. Andolino. "At Chicago's airports, we are truly proud to do everything we can to honor and serve the brave men and women who sacrifice so much for our country."

CDA Chief Operating Officer Khaled Naja joined a number of speakers in an anniversary celebration Thursday, December 15, in the Canteen, congratulating the USO and praising the U.S. military members and veterans who have served and continue to serve our country. Other speakers included Alison Ruble, President and Chief Operating Officer of the USO of Illinois; John May, Chairman and CEO, USO of Illinois; Franco Tedeschi, Vice President with American Airlines, which provides space to the USO for the Canteen; Marine Sgt. Major Rob Baker; Linda Kozma of the Veteran Military Employee Resource Group (VMERG). Also honored at the ceremony was HMSHost for providing food for military personnel and their families and Home Depot for providing a Christmas tree for the Canteen.

The Canteen is located in Terminal 3 past the security checkpoint by the entrance of the L concourse.

Photos from the festivities:

Khaled Naja, CDA Chief Operating Officer, delivers remarks at the USO/AMR Cyber Canteen anniversary celebration.

Linda Kozma, Chairwoman, O'Hare Veteran Military Employee Resource Group (VMERG), thanks the USO/AMR Cyber Canteen volunteers during the Canteen's anniversary celebration.

AMR Vice President Franco Tedeschi accepts an award from Alison Ruble, President and COO, USO of Illinois.

The USO Carolers perform at the USO/AMR Cyber Canteen anniversary celebration.