Celebrating Culinary Excellence: Military Foodservice Awards

Recognizing Culinary Achievements in the Military

Leading foodservice teams from America's Armed Forces were recently celebrated during the impressive Military Foodservice Awards event. This prestigious gathering revealed the dedication and culinary expertise of these units, which play a critical role in fortifying the nourishment of service members across various environments.

A Night of Celebration for Military Foodservice Professionals

Hosted by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), the Military Foodservice Awards showcased military units that excelled in core restaurant standards, emphasizing food safety, sanitation, and overall operational excellence. This event brought together prominent figures from the restaurant industry to honor these unsung heroes.

Among the highlights of the evening, Derrick Green, an accomplished figure and founder of Waffles and Whatnot, delivered an inspiring keynote speech on the importance of leadership and growth for individuals in the foodservice sector.

Significance of Military Foodservice in Global Operations

Military foodservice professionals are invaluable to the preparedness and morale of troops deployed around the world. Their commitment to providing nutritious meals ensures that service members maintain their physical well-being, whether stationed at home, onboard ships, or in forward operating locations.

Rob Gifford, President of the NRAEF, recognized the extraordinary skill level of these foodservice teams, noting how they consistently perform in some of the most arduous environments imaginable. The Foundation is dedicated to equipping these teams with advanced skills and facilitating successful transitions into the civilian workforce when the time comes.

Celebrations and Training Programs Post-Awards

The awards ceremony was merely the beginning of a weekend full of festivities for the honored foodservice teams. Winning units participated in the Foundation's Advanced Management Training Program, which offered knowledge on career pathways in the restaurant industry and practical skills in restaurant management and leadership.

The program provided a valuable opportunity for these military personnel to develop unique restaurant concepts, enhancing their culinary and managerial skills during their time at the National Restaurant Association Show.

Highlights of the 2025 Military Foodservice Awards

Several outstanding military units earned recognition at this year’s Military Foodservice Awards:

Philip A. Connelly Awards – Honoring the Army

• Active Army Field Feeding Company Winner: 581st Quartermaster Company
• Active Army Brigade Support Battalion Winner: 82nd Brigade Support Battalion
• United States Army Reserve Field Kitchen Winner: 1003rd Quartermaster Field Feeding Detachment
• Army National Guard Field Kitchen Winner: I Company, 700th Brigade Support Battalion

Major General W.P.T. Hill Memorial Awards – Honoring the United States Marine Corps

• Best Management and Mess Attendant Mess Hall: Anderson Mess Hall
• Best Full Food Service Mess Hall: Mess Hall 622
• Best Active Field Mess: Combat Logistics Regiment 37
• Best Reserve Field Mess: Combat Logistics Regiment 45

Captain Edward F. Ney Memorial Awards – Honoring the Navy

• Small East Coast Platform Winner: USS Bulkeley
• Small West Coast Platform Winner: USS Wayne E. Meyer
• Medium East Coast Platform Winner: USS Fort Lauderdale
• Large Platform Winner: USS Blue Ridge

Captain David M. Cook Food Service Excellence Awards – Honoring Military Sealift Command

• Small Ship Category Winner: USNS Carson City
• Medium Ship Category Winner: USNS Harvey Milk
• Hybrid Ship Category Winner: USS Mount Whitney

John L. Hennessy Awards for Excellence – Honoring the Department of the Air Force

• Missile Alert Field Feeding Operation: 90th Missile Wing
• Small Sites Winner: 701st Munitions Support Squadron
• Active Duty Foodservice Operations Region One Winner: 786th Force Support Squadron

Beyond the awards, the NRAEF offers strong support through its Advanced Culinary Training Program (ACTP), helping military personnel transition their skills into successful restaurant careers. These efforts extend to providing scholarships for military families pursuing education in the foodservice field.

About the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation

The NRAEF is dedicated to enhancing the training and development of the foodservice workforce. Its philanthropic efforts focus on attracting and empowering individuals to thrive in the restaurant and hospitality sector. Through innovative programs like ProStart®, scholarships, and strategic community partnerships, the NRAEF helps to build a brighter future for the industry.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the Military Foodservice Awards?

The Military Foodservice Awards celebrate the culinary excellence and dedication of military foodservice units across the Armed Forces.

What role do military foodservice professionals play?

These professionals ensure the readiness and well-being of troops by providing nutritious meals in various environments, including combat zones.

Who hosted the awards ceremony?

The awards ceremony was hosted by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF).

What special programs are offered to military foodservice professionals?

The NRAEF offers multiple programs, including advanced culinary training and career transition support for military personnel.

How can I learn more about the NRAEF?

More information about the NRAEF and its initiatives can be found on their official website.

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