If people are our Army, then the morale of the troops could not be more important. Chiang Kai-shek, a 20th-century Chinese political and military leader once wrote, "War is not only a matter of equipment, artillery, ground troops or air force; it is largely a matter of spirit or morale." That is true today as Soldiers perform at their best when their bellies are full with award-winning food that our food service Soldiers' provide.
The food service personnel at the Talon Café on Camp Humphreys were recognized for their accomplishments within the culinary arts field, Oct. 28. They were presented awards by the 2nd Infantry Division Commander, Maj. Gen. Thomas Vandal, for their hard work in ensuring their brothers and sisters in-arms retain a soaring morale by serving good food.
"Winning this award makes me feel like all my hard work is not being overlooked," said Pfc. Bria Jewell, from Detroit, Mich., and assigned to 302nd Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team and winner of the 4th Quarter Division Junior Chef of the Quarter Board. "You have your days where you wonder why you picked this job because it is so strenuous, mentally and physically. (So) when you do get rewarded for your hard work, you know it is worth it."
The life of being a cook is tough and often includes long hours.
"The daily life of a cook is hard," said Sgt. Jamera Lea, assigned to Company E, 4th Attack Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Aviation Regiment, 2nd Combat Aviation Brigade and winner of the 2nd Inf. Div., Commanding General's Senior Chef of the Year Board. "We wake up at 3:00 a.m. to be here at 4:00 a.m. Since we do not have set schedules, some Soldiers come in at 4:00 a.m. and might not get off until about 4 p.m."
It was not only the individual Soldier that was honored but also the dining facilities in which they worked. The dining facility staff competed for the title of "CG's Best Dining Facility of the Year". Though competition was fierce, the Talon Café was this year's winner as well as the winner of 4th quarter.
"Our main goal is to make sure everyone on Camp Humphreys receives three quality meals a day," said Chief Warrant Officer 2 Carmelo Albinodiaz originally from Puerto Rico and assigned to Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd CAB as the brigade food advisor. "At the end of the day that is what it is all about."
With a few more accomplishments under their belts, the food service Soldiers assigned to the division continue to focus on providing outstanding service and meals to their fellow Soldiers. Thanks to their hard work and dedication, the Soldiers assigned to the 2nd Inf. Div., will go to bed tonight with a taste of home and wake up tomorrow fit to fight.
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