Ever focused on the leveraging of the joint-services environment on board Fort Lee, the Culinary Specialist "A" School staff worked diligently to observe one of the most respected holidays in America, Memorial Day, on May 25.

The day was observed by honoring all the men and women in uniform who have passed away. The staff and students prepared a small memorial and held a moment of silence in honor of fallen comrades. They then honored the students who did not have the luxury of going home and attending a family picnic by preparing the all American Barbeque meal consisting of grilled hot dogs, hamburgers, baked beans and apple pie amongst other dishes.

With the help of the Morale, Welfare and Recreation department and the USO entertainment for the students included games and prizes. Students were provided a warm home feeling environment as they participated in line dancing and great conversation, the atmosphere helped them enjoy the holiday and not stress about being departed from family for the first time. Instead of hearing the routine response of "I miss my Family" it was replaced with "I enjoyed my holiday".

"On this greatest, earnest holiday, we must halt and reflect the great sacrifices that others have made so that we may have the liberty and prosperity we enjoy," said Master Chief Culinary Specialist (SS) Dexter Johnson, CSSLS Fort Lee's senior enlisted leader. "Let us consider what those brave warriors were fighting for, and let us honor each and every one of them with a pledge to restore to this nation the honor, morals and values for which they gave their lives."

More information on the observance and Culinary Specialist "A" School can be seen at the Fort Lee Traveler website (http://www.ftleetraveller.com/) or the Center for Service Support Learning Site Fort Lee Facebook Page.

For more news from Center for Service Support, visit www.navy.mil/.