American Engineering Corporation Strengthens Longstanding Partnership with USO Okinawa Through Latest $16,000 Donation and Center Refresh

USO Okinawa and American Engineering Corporation (AEC) marked another milestone in their more than five-decade partnership during a donation ceremony held on November 17, 2025, at the newly refreshed USO Futenma center. During the event, AEC CEO Kenneth Exsterstein presented a $16,000 Silver Sponsorship-level donation to USO Okinawa Area Director Henry Hughes, further strengthening the company’s unwavering commitment to supporting service members and military families stationed on the island. The donation ceremony took place inside the revitalized USO Futenma center—an upgrade recently completed by AEC as part of their continued support for USO facilities across Okinawa. While presenting the contribution, Mr. Exsterstein reflected on the long, shared history between AEC and USO Okinawa.

AEC, headquartered in Okinawa and employing more than a thousand staff across Japan, provides architectural, civil, and mechanical engineering services in support of U.S. government operations from Tokyo to Misawa, Iwakuni, and other locations. In Okinawa, AEC remains one of the island’s largest construction and engineering firms, supporting projects across U.S. military installations as well as private-sector clients. Their Japan Operations Headquarters on the mainland also specializes in developing and installing advanced security systems for major corporations.

For over 52 years, AEC has been one of USO Okinawa’s most steadfast corporate partners—supporting construction projects, center improvements, and multiple large-scale initiatives. Their contributions have included the construction of the USO Camp Schwab Center (2022), the USO Indo-Pacific Office relocation (2022), and numerous facility enhancements across the island, including this year’s USO Futenma center refresh.

Area Director Henry Hughes shared his gratitude during the ceremony: “For as long as I’ve been with the USO in Okinawa, AEC has been a steadfast supporter of our mission. The USO is known for providing snacks, comfort, and connectivity to our troops and their families. Thanks to AEC’s continued generosity, we’re able to deliver the comfort and connection our service members deserve while they are stationed far from home.”

AEC’s ongoing sponsorship enables USO Okinawa’s six centers to expand their programming and services, providing critical support ranging from morale-boosting events and spouse/family programming to transition assistance and no-cost amenities for service members across the island.

USO Okinawa looks forward to continuing its long-standing partnership with AEC as together they enhance the quality of life for those who protect and defend our nation.

To learn more about USO Okinawa’s events, programs, and center locations, please visit okinawa.uso.org and follow @USOOkinawa on social media.