Honoring Military Foodservice Excellence
On the evening of May 19, 2025, Chicago served as the backdrop for the prestigious Military Foodservice Awards, an event that spotlighted the stellar contributions of various foodservice units from the U.S. Armed Forces. This celebration, organized by the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation (NRAEF), gathered industry leaders and military personnel to recognize the indispensable service provided by the foodservice professionals working within the military.
Acknowledging Culinary Mastery
The awards sought to underscore the exceptional abilities of military foodservice teams in executing core restaurant industry standards. These criteria encompass food safety protocols, sanitation practices, preparation techniques, and service execution. Each unit competed for excellence, showcasing their capability to deliver high-quality meals in some of the world’s most challenging environments.
In attendance was keynote speaker Derrick Green, a veteran and founder of Waffles and Whatnot, who shared his insights on leadership and personal growth. His address resonated well with the audience, providing motivation and perspective on the importance of dedication and service.
As Michelle Korsmo, the President and CEO of the National Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, articulated, “These foodservice professionals are tremendously important to the success of the restaurant industry. It is such a privilege to honor these individuals who do so much for their fellow service members.”
Impact on Force Readiness
Military foodservice units play a critical role in ensuring the readiness of the armed forces by providing sustenance to service members at home, abroad, on ships, and in the field. Every year, they prepare and serve billions of meals, often under complex logistical conditions, such as in submarines or at forward operating bases.
Rob Gifford, the president of the NRAEF, emphasized, “Military foodservice teams are exceptionally skilled in creating and serving meals that nourish and sustain, and they do it multiple times each day.” The passion and expertise displayed by these groups are crucial for maintaining the morale and health of military personnel.
Pathways to Culinary Careers
The awards ceremony not only celebrated achievements but also kicked off a series of events, including the NRAEF’s Advanced Management Training Program. This program was tailored for the winning foodservice teams and included training in restaurant management fundamentals, leadership, and concept development. Additionally, it provided a unique opportunity for attendees to visit the National Restaurant Association Show in Chicago, where they could further their professional development.
The following units received accolades during the 2025 Military Foodservice Awards, highlighting their outstanding performance:
- - Philip A. Connelly Awards for the Army recognized the best field feeding and support battalions, noting excellence in operational kitchens and food service management across various bases.
- - Major General W.P.T. Hill Memorial Awards honored exceptional mess halls within the United States Marine Corps, underscoring the commitment to food service excellence among military installations.
- - Captain Edward F. Ney Memorial Awards acknowledged outstanding food service platforms in the Navy, showcasing the exceptional management provided aboard ships.
- - John L. Hennessy Awards celebrated accomplishments within the U.S. Air Force, emphasizing the vital role of food service operations in supporting both combat readiness and quality of life for military personnel.
Commitment to Training and Transitioning Military
Alongside the annual Military Foodservice Awards, the NRAEF is dedicated to equipping military personnel with the skills necessary to thrive in the restaurant and hospitality sectors. This commitment includes providing advanced culinary training programs and facilitating apprenticeship opportunities for transitioning service members.
Various scholarships are also available to support military veterans who wish to pursue post-secondary education in related fields. This holistic approach ensures that those who have served their country are well-prepared for civilian careers in the culinary industry.
As the NRAEF continues to promote the intersection of military service and culinary excellence, they invite more individuals to support this vital cause by visiting
ChooseRestaurants.org/military. By celebrating the culinary achievements of military foodservice personnel, we not only honor their dedication but also lay the groundwork for their successful careers in the foodservice industry.