John Reeves :
While US soldiers in the field primarily eat Meals Ready-to-Eat (MREs) which consist of various entrees like chili, spaghetti, or beef stew along with sides, snacks, and drinks, it's not entirely unheard of for them to have lobster and steak.
There are a few reasons why soldiers might be seen eating such a lavish meal:
* Special Occasions/Morale Boosters: Dining facilities (DFACs) on military bases, especially overseas, sometimes offer special meals for holidays or significant events (like the Army's birthday). These can include "surf and turf" options as a morale boost for the troops.
* "Deployment Meal" Myth: There's a long-standing, somewhat dark, tradition or myth in military circles that troops are given a lavish steak and lobster meal before a major deployment or combat operation. While not an official policy, it's sometimes done as a symbolic gesture or a "last good meal."
* Paying for it: In some dining facilities, soldiers might have the option to pay for more expensive, premium items like steak or lobster if they are available.
* Overseas Bases: Some reports suggest that steak and lobster can be offered more frequently at chow halls on overseas bases due to different budgeting and procurement processes.
It's important to distinguish between these occasional, special meals and the standard daily rations, which are MREs designed for durability, nutritional value, and ease of preparation in the field.
2025-06-20 07:33:59