12/31/2025
The cornerstone of U.S. Army readiness, Culinary Specialists are the premier facet sustaining the force where and when it matters. With indispensable skill and adaptability, they deliver safe nutritious meals in demanding conditions. Their work fuels physical performance, sharpens mental focus and strengthens morale often becoming a powerful reminder of normalcy and care in high-stress environments. Soldiers may be far from home, but it is U.S. Army Culinary Specialists who can bring them the comfort of home thousands of miles away.
We'd like to give our most sincere appreciation and gratitude to the Culinary Specialists of 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery, 1st Infantry Division who made it possible for our Soldiers and theirs to feel home away from home this holiday season. These Soldiers were recognized by 3rd Infantry Division Commanding General Brig. Gen. Lubas and Division Command Sgt. Maj. Durgin and 3ID challenge coins were awarded to Spc. Maina and Spc. Nguyen for their hard work, dedication and eagerness to hit the ground running.
Sgt. Hensley, Sgt. Mayo, Spc. Bittner, Spc. Faust, Spc. Hunter, Spc. Maina, Spc. Nguyen, Spc. Rounds and Spc. Salinas. Thank you for directly enhancing the endurance, resiliency and collective strength of the U.S. Army's mission.
(U.S. Army photos by: Staff Sgt. Lundgren)