By Jaz Levario
U.S. Army Garrison Fort Devens Public Affairs
April 5, 2022
USAG FORT DEVENS, Ma. (April 5, 2022) - - On April 2, 2022, U.S. Army Garrison Fort Devens personnel and leadership celebrated the reopening of the newly remodeled Artesani Warrior Restaurant. Joseph Cunningham, who served as the event's narrator, welcomed distinguished guests, military and civilian partners and thanked those responsible for completing the project.
"Big projects with large payoffs come with a ton of work," said Fort Devens Command Sergeant Major Jamie Rogers as she thanked all those that played an integral role in opening the Artesani Warrior Restaurant. "CSM Lombardo, your support was the major muscle movement for us to obtain the funding requirements. Please relay to Lieutenant General Daniels our appreciation."
The Artesani Warrior Restaurant finally reopened its doors after six long years of hard work and a 4.6 million dollar, state-of-the-art remodel. The Artesani Warrior Restaurant will provide healthy and hot meal options to over 3,600 Soldiers a day.
"Soldiers are our ultimate weapon and require premium fuel to operate. We are proud to deliver an evidence-based and nutritional program that optimizes our troops' performance readiness and health," said Fort Devens Garrison Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Trent R. Colestock.
The Artesani was originally named after Master Sergeant Richard Artesani, who ran the dining facility during his time at Fort Devens. MSG Artesani served at Fort Devens after being held as a Prisoner of War (POW) in North Korea during the Korean War. He fought to stay on active duty and not be medically discharged due to his injuries and took charge of the dining facility upon his return. MSG Artesani was known for his passion and commitment. "I will never let a man for who I am responsible go hungry." MSG Artesani said while being held as a POW.
"As a Senior Noncommissioned Officer, he truly made a difference. His sacrifice and dedication to taking care of Soldiers are beyond commendable. We are honored that you are here today, representing his legacy. Thank you!" said CSM Rogers as she addressed the crowd and thanked Eileen (Artesani) Sullivan.
The event concluded with a ceremonial ribbon-cutting by Garrison Commander LTC Colestock, CSM Andrew Lombardo, CSM Rogers and Mrs. Eileen (Artesani) Sullivan.
U.S. Army Garrison Fort Devens provides premier training capabilities and base operations support to the Total Force in New England.
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