Writer & Photographer – Cdt/MSG Ethan Serna
With the bugle call signaling the start of the Dining In, cadets filed into the cafeteria, exchanging greetings and socializing. When the call for seating was given, cadets took their places in their respective squads and battalions. Once everyone was seated, Cadet S-1 Sydney Mendoza led the battalion in the Dining In introduction before beginning the toasts. Cadet Colon honored the table of the missing man, and the battalion observed a moment of silence to show respect, following military tradition.
The grog bowl ceremony is a centerpiece of the Dining In here at Ansbach. Cadets CDT Benson, Cadet D. Richard, CDT L. Rudy, M. Larson, CDT R. Nichols, and Cadet Eickmeyer all contributed unusual ingredients to the grog. However, Cdt V. Richard fell unconscious after sampling the unique concoction. According to tradition, cadets must taste the potion as a punishment for uniform or mess infractions.
After this, cadets enjoyed each other’s company while savoring a delicious assortment of entrees and desserts before moving on to the most entertaining—and potentially embarrassing—part of the Dining In: the skits! Cadets presented their skits with the hope of eliciting a chuckle from the Battalion’s BN Commander, CSM, and XO. After a night filled with laughter and fun, the skits concluded, and with a quick cleanup, the evening came to an end.