Food service apprentice selected for culinary training

by Senior Airman Andrea Salazar
374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

4/2/2013 - YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Airman 1st Class Rachel Armstrong from the 374th Force Support Squadron was recently selected to attend a weeklong seminar at the Greystone Culinary School of America in Napa Valley, Calif.

The seminar will allow Armstrong the opportunity to learn from some of the best and most well known chefs and hospitality industry leaders in the U.S. She will be attending the seminar with other members from across the services.

"I am very excited to see all the different techniques and cooking styles the seminar has to offer," said Armstrong. "I honestly didn't expect I would get this opportunity but I am glad that I was chosen."

After Yokota's Samurai Café was evaluated and selected as the 2013 Dining Facilities throughout the Pacific Air Force. Lydia Elkstrong, certified executive chef and evaluator of military dining facilities, noticed Armstrong's love and dedication for the trade and her job.

"I chose her because she seems very passionate and dedicated about her job," said Elkstrong. "I had to choose among all the dining facilities in the past year and I believe she could benefit from the seminar."

After the evaluation, Lt. Col. Grant Vineyard, 374th Force Support Squadron commander, congratulated Armstrong and expressed his enthusiasm and appreciation for the entire DFAC.

"I am happy for her and the entire DFAC, if we could send them all we would," said Vineyard. "She represents what they all stand for; providing a good service to the Yokota Community."

By providing Airmen with opportunities like this, they can gain subject knowledge and ultimately apply it to their daily mission.

Armstrong said she believes attending this event will help broaden her skills and she can bring that training back to Yokota, improving morale and ultimately providing a better quality of life for Airmen.