An Evening of Flavor and Gratitude - The 27th Annual USO Salute to Military Chefs

The USO hosted its 27th Annual Salute to Military Chefs dinner Thursday Nov. 14, 2024, recognizing the culinary excellence of military chefs who serve America’s armed forces and national leaders. The event, held in Washington, D.C., brought together top military leaders, community supporters, and corporate partners to celebrate these behind-the-scenes heroes.

The evening was opened by Lisa Marie Riggins, USO Southeast Regional President, who welcomed attendees and highlighted the critical role military chefs play.

“Behind every one of our nation’s top leaders, there is a military chef ensuring a good meal is the last thing they have to worry about,” Riggins said.

The dinner honored 12 military chefs nominated by senior officials, including the president, vice president, secretary of defense, and military leaders from across the branches.

Their presence, alongside community supporters and USO leaders, added to the evening’s significance for the chefs and their families.

The chefs honored represent every branch of the military and are culinary leaders in their fields. Honorees included:

• CS1 Jesse Thompson, U.S. Navy (nominated by the Vice President)
• Staff Sgt. Nahomie Fanfan, U.S. Army (nominated by the Chief of Staff of the Army)
• CS1 Preston Smith, U.S. Navy (nominated by the President)
• Sgt. Patricia Gonzalez Ochoa, U.S. Marine Corps (nominated by the Commandant of the Marine Corps)
• CS1 Mandy Harris, U.S. Navy (nominated by the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff)
• CS1 Felicia Juarez, U.S. Coast Guard (nominated by the Commandant of the Coast Guard)
• Tech Sgt. Michael De Franco, U.S. Air Force (nominated by the Chief of Staff of the Air Force)
• Master Sgt. Kevin Arwood, U.S. Army (nominated by the Director of the Army National Guard)
• CS1 Luis Sanchez, U.S. Navy (nominated by the Secretary of Defense)
• CS1 Sarah Server, U.S. Navy (nominated by the Chief of Naval Operations)
• Tech Sgt. Ashlee Folks, U.S. Air Force (nominated by the Secretary of Defense)
• Staff Sgt. Matthew Perlin, U.S. Space Force (nominated by the Chief of Space Operations)

Each chef’s story was highlighted in a video tribute followed by remarks from the senior leader who nominated them. Celebrity chef Carla Hall, the evening’s co-host, praised their dedication and sacrifice.

“Being a military chef is a unique form of service—a blend of artistry, resilience, and love,” Hall said.

The evening was made possible by longtime sponsor BMC, which has supported the event for 13 consecutive years. David Sims, BMC’s vice president of U.S. public sector, was recognized for his unwavering commitment to the event.

“The work of the USO and these incredible chefs reflects a commitment to service that inspires us all,” Sims said during his remarks.

The six-course meal, prepared by the honored chefs, was paired with wines from Venge Vineyards. The dinner not only celebrated culinary artistry but also underscored the USO’s broader mission to support service members and their families.

Stories of the USO’s disaster relief efforts, including deployments to aid communities after Hurricanes Helene and Milton, highlighted the organization’s commitment. Mobile USO centers supported more than 21,000 service members during these efforts, providing comfort and a sense of normalcy amid the devastation.

As the evening concluded, Riggins reflected on the chefs’ impact. “Your reactions fuel their passion,” she said, thanking attendees for their support.

The 27th Annual Salute to Military Chefs closed with a standing ovation for the honorees, leaving a lasting impression of gratitude and inspiration.