Writer & Photographer – LTC (Ret) Ryan Core
In Indianapolis, IN, Arsenal Tech High School’s JROTC Cadets recently took an unusual culinary challenge: turning standard issue MREs (Meals Ready to Eat) into fine dining. Known for their resilence, the cadets transformed MREs, often referred to “Meals Replusive to Everybody” or “Mr. E’s”, into gourment-style dishes with the added twist of a mystery: pumpkin puree, in honor of the fall season.
The “MasterChef” challenge invited cadets to craft dishes that impressed on presentation, creativity, and taste. Cadets quickly rose to the challenge, experimenting with unusual combinations and surprisng flavors. Among the standout dishes was the pumpkin-coffee-puccino, a creative take on an after-dinner treat that drew high praise from Arsenal Tech JROTC’s own Master Sergeant (retired) Robbins and Master Sergeant (retired) Giacobbe.
On hand to judge the outcome of the culinary feats were Indiana Army National Guard recruiters, Staff Sergeant Victoria Perez and Sergeant Logan Asseld, as well as Arsenal Tech Career Academy Coordinator Charonda Woods. In a competition where creativity and presentation were as essential as taste, the winners were determined by a balanced score across all criteria, including a lack of regurgitation—an essential success metric given the unique nature of MREs.
The event showcased the cadets’ teamwork and resilience in a fun, fall-themed competition, blending military tradition with a lighthearted culinary twist, all at just the right time before the Trick-or-Treating begins!