FORT DRUM, N.Y. (June 22, 2017) -- What is the first thing Soldiers look forward to following a strenuous physical training session? Or, what do Soldiers in the field dream about after a few days of living off Meals Ready to Eat? Well, you might think omelets, pizza, hamburgers, steak -- in other words, hot chow of course!
It's a significant boost to morale to be able to gather with your fellow squad members, relax and enjoy a meal served at the nearby dining facility (DFAC). However, for the past 18 months, this luxury hasn't been available for the "Commandos" of 2nd Brigade Combat Team. That is, until just recently when the newly renovated Commando Café opened its doors June 19 to begin serving Soldiers of 2nd Brigade Combat Team.
The much-anticipated event is a culmination of more than a year and half of detailed planning, structural renovation and equipment upgrades. The revitalization of Bldg. 10150, 4th Armored Division Drive, is the first since 1989.
In addition to the renovations, the dining facility highlights the storied history of the Commando Brigade. Retro photos and advertisements of World War II line the walls of the Pine Camp Room, which is complete with a 16-foot-long pine wood dining table.
The transformation of the Commando Café was no easy task to complete, as explained by Warrant Officer Billy Daugette, 2nd Brigade Combat Team food service technician.
"There was one massive pipe in the foundation that was completely filled with grease over the course of 28 years," he said. "The issue with that specific pipe was that it was supplying all the hot water, so it had to be replaced."
After the all of the structural concerns had been addressed, the focus then shifted to the design and layout of the Commando Café itself. Daugette further elaborated on the new, fresh style.
"It's campus-style feeding, much like you would have at most colleges," he said. "You have different selections such as the Quick Fix area, sandwich shop area, burger bar and brick oven pizza, which is great because it gives you more choices day to day beyond just the primary main line."
The same level of excitement is expressed by other members of the Commando Café team.
Pfc. Kristofer Hardin, a food service specialist, explained the advantages of working with new equipment.
"The new equipment that we have will make us work more quickly and efficiently," he said.
Hardin's supervisor, Sgt. Jedidiah Case, explained how the newly renovated Commando Café serves as a source of pride for him.
"It was frustrating for us to be pulled away from our home when the old DFAC went under renovation," he said. "Now, we have access to brand-new equipment that you don't see in a lot of other dining facilities."
There are still further challenges ahead for the Commando Café team. Daugette said that he foresees the biggest obstacle is changing the mindset of the diners who come in, and that starts with offering more choices than ever before.
"Now when you come in we have a 14-day menu on the main line in addition to the specialty bars," he said.
Returning an operational DFAC that is centrally located within the 2nd BCT footprint brings not only convenience to the Soldier but also a raised level of morale and sense of ownership.
"The Soldiers who live in the barracks or frequent the dining facility on a daily basis view it as part of their home and unit history, and that's what we are trying to bring back here," Daugette said.
Social Sharing