Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. visits Fort Carson’s new Bistro
Mackenzie Stafford
EL PASO COUNTY, Colo. (KRDO) – On Thursday, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., visited Fort Carson’s campus-style dining venue, The Stack House Bistro, to learn about the Army’s Food Program modernization strategy.
In April, Fort Carson held a ribbon-cutting ceremony for The Stack House Bistro, becoming the second installation to participate in the Army’s campus-style dining venue pilot program, according to Fort Carson.
HHS Sec. Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. walked through the dining hall, trying the food being served to soldiers on the mountain post. The Stack House Bistro had a wide array of options, including a salad bar, pizza, burgers, prime rib, smoothies, stromboli, etc.
KRDO13 Investigates revealed reports of food scarcity and limited options for soldiers at Fort Carson.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Fort Carson seeking to improve after struggles with fluctuating food quality, quantity
On Thursday, KRDO13 brought those concerns to Secretary Kennedy and asked what is changing for service members.
“We know that before this new facility made the changes, there were between 6 and 700 soldiers eating here. Now there’s 3000. That’s all you have to know to know how it’s impacting morale. But it’s also impacting performance, and it’s impacting the health of our military,” answered Secretary Kennedy.
He also noted that these meals are cheaper for the military.
“We were spending about $17 per for three meals per day. And now they’re down to $12. So it’s also obliterated this myth that good food is more expensive. You just have to buy smart. And this is something every American should know at home. Processed food has the illusion of being inexpensive, but it’s convenient, and in the long run it’s going to kill you,” said Kennedy.
We also spoke with a soldier who detailed the conversations he had with Kennedy in a closed-door meeting. He said the HHS Secretary had hoped to get a better understanding of how they can support their military readiness with meals. The team leader said he has seen an improvement in the food. He did contend that the portion sizes could change.
“There’s been a huge difference. You know, before it was, it was very high sodium, you know, very unhealthy foods and a lot more choices here, a lot more food categories, a lot healthier, and yeah, it’s great,” said Michael Pickering, member of the 3rd Armored Brigade Combat Team.
Secretary Kennedy and military leaders hope this bistro can be replicated at other military installations across the country.