21st TSC cooks serve Americana flavor to NATO

American culinary traditions were spotlighted at the Flag Officers Luncheon at the NATO Headquarters – Joint Forces Command in Brunssum, the Netherlands, Nov. 6.

Cooks from the 21st Theater Sustainment Command prepared an American feast for about 300 NATO officers and family members from several European
countries and abroad.

The Flag Officers Luncheon is held each month and is hosted by a different country each time.  The United States hosts the luncheon once a year, but this is the first time U.S. Army Soldiers were given the mission of preparing the meals. In previous years, the meals were prepared by Dutch cooks who worked at the American
dining facility.

Five Soldiers from units within the 21st TSC were given the job to make a classic American meal. The menu featured time-honored American cuisine such as
macaroni and cheese, fried chicken, barbecue ribs, breaded catfish and pumpkin pie.

“One of the cooks here is from my unit, but we just met the other cooks. It’s good to work with them,” said Spc. Kimberly Maynard, a cook with the 272nd Military Police Company. “I hope everybody likes it.”

That enthusiasm and teamwork was needed in order to prepare a meal consisting of several courses for 300 people.  

“We have a good team and can accomplish anything that comes our way,” said Sgt. Erick Garcia, a cook with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 21st TSC.

That team was specifically chosen for their hard work, knowledge and expertise in
making American meals, said Sgt. 1st Class Richard Robles, food advisor for HHC, 18th Military Police Brigade, 21st TSC.

The American theme extended to the décor of the dining area.  Two vintage corvettes were parked outside of the dining hall and flags showing each version of the American flag through the centuries were hung on the walls. Each table was given a U.S. state name, and pamphlets and books showcasing the attractions of each state were placed throughout the dining hall. The door prizes also had an American theme such as an American football and basketball.

“It’s brilliant. I’m really enjoying it,” said Senior Aircraftwoman Louise Bolt, Royal Air Force, Great Britain.