In partnership with Verizon Business, Wal-Mart, SkyPort, and the USO, Cisco (News - Alert) is enabling virtual family reunions for U.S. troops serving in Iraq. With the help of Cisco TelePresence, a lifelike, immersive video communications technology, troops can find some solace in being able speak to and see loved ones on the home front.

 

In this collaborative effort, Cisco TelePresence will be used to allow troops to connect with friends and family via a free connection over Verizon (News - Alert) Business’ Private IP network and a SkyPort satellite uplink. The solution links two remote bases in Iraq to two Wal-Mart stores: one located hear Fort Drum in Evans Mills, New York, and the other near Camp Pendleton in Temecula, California. There are also two specially equipped family-gathering rooms built in these Wal-Mart stores as of April 2, which will be available through July 6, spanning not only this past weekend’s Mother’s Day, but also Memorial Day, Father’s Day, and Independence Day.

 

With the help of Cisco Telepresence (News - Alert) technology, face-to-face interaction gets so realistic that users think that they are actually in the same room. Troops have been using video conferencing for some time, but telepresence takes it to a news level. Some families have even used the facilities to hold virtual birthday parties.

 

Skyport has installed satellite ground links at the two bases in Iraq where soldiers and marines can access a Cisco TelePresence system.

 

“Cisco TelePresence demonstrates the power of communicating and collaborating real-time as though you were meeting face-to-face,” said John Chambers (News - Alert), chairman and CEO of Cisco. “Our companies are very proud to join together to honor and recognize our troops and their loved ones. We hope military families will take advantage of this technology and connect with our service men and women overseas during the upcoming holidays.”