NOVEMBER 23, 2016 BY DEANGELA MCDOUGALD JC Post

Big Red OneOne hundred years as a division, and an eternity of tradition – paying homage to the First Infantry Division’s 100th Anniversary, the Cantigny Dining Facility celebrated Thanksgiving today with the customary holiday meal.

Staying true to tradition, officers and senior non-commissioned officers served the meal to soldiers, families, and civilians.

Brigadier General Patrick D. Frank, 1st ID and Fort Riley acting senior commander, said that soldiers often come together around their meals. “Thanksgiving is one of those very special occasions, you really see the teamwork that is involved in our units, in our formations across the Division…when you go around and see our soldiers all enjoying a Thanksgiving meal together – the same soldiers that were in Kuwait last year and potentially looking at a deployment again next year, this means a lot to them to come in here and enjoy time with their friends and their family.”

Frank said that he will spend Thanksgiving Day with his soldiers.

SPC William Bartnick said he was spending the holiday with his unit, “it takes your mind off of [not being at home]…it gets a weight off your shoulders.”

That feeling of being at home resonated with many.

“This was really beautiful, they thought about this – they put thought in to this and it made me feel like I’m home,” said PFC Shakima Windsor.

Colonel David Gardner, Commander 2nd Brigade, said that it’s heartwarming to see all of the families and community members that come enjoy the meal noting that the Food Service Specialists don’t get enough credit. “When you see what [they] can actually do on a daily basis, they don’t get enough credit for how talented they are at pastries and making cakes, and putting together a really nice spread.”

Nearly 1400 pounds of food were prepared, spanning over 17 hours.

Guests were entertained with music from the 1st ID Band, a replica of Willy Wonka’s Chocolate factory – chocolate river included, and some of the history of the Division.

Taking on the task of refilling sparkling cider was Command Sergeant Major Craig A. Copridge who summed up the significance of leadership not being afraid to get their hands dirty. “It goes back to army traditions…just to let [the soldiers] know how important they are to us, and how thankful we are to have them under our charge.”

Thursday’s Thanksgiving meal will be served at Demon’s Diner located at 694 Huebner Road from 11:00 am until 3:00 pm.