Lakenheath prepares for Hennessy inspection team

  • Published
  • By 1st Lt. Carla M. Gleason
  • 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England (USAFENS) --  The Hennessy evaluation team will visit RAF Lakenheath to inspect the quality, service and standards of dining facilities here.

The John L. Hennessy trophy is an annual award presented to Air Force installations, in single and multiple-facility categories, that have the best food service program. The award is based on the entire scope of an installation’s food service program including management effectiveness, force readiness support, food quality, employee and customer relations, resource conservation, training and safety awareness.

“To win the Hennessy award, the inspection team has to feel that the base supports our food services operations,” said Col. Amanda Gladney, 48th Mission Support Group commander. “The services squadron has scheduled some great events to make sure that happens, and we have an outstanding chance of winning this year.”

According to George Miller, chief of the Air Force Food Service Directorate of Operations HQ Air Force Services Agency, the Hennessy Trophy Awards Program was established in 1956 by the Air Force, National Restaurant Association, Society for Food Service Management and International Food Service Executives Association to promote excellence in customer service and meal quality and inspire high morale, motivation, mission support and a professional image through pride and spirited competition.

“The annual program reflects the dedication, pride and fellowship of the civilian food service industry and the Air Force way of life,” said Mr. Miller.

Winners of this award receive a plaque and scholarship option from the Hennessy Travelers Association. They also receive an invitation to attend a National Restaurant Association-sponsored education seminar. These special awards are presented after the Hennessy Trophy Awards Ceremony in Chicago.

“It’s a tough competition and our food service team has put a lot of effort in preparing for it. I’m so proud of every one and hope to bring home the gold,” said Maj. Serena Armstrong, 48th Services Squadron commander.