In the field, most Marines consider MRE’s required sustenance. At the National Museum of the Marine Corps, they’re practically gourmet.
The museum at Quantico will hold “Meals Ready to Eat” (MRE) Cook-off on Feb. 7. They started this event three years ago in order to draw more attention to the Museum during the cold winter months.
“We’re always looking for new and interesting things to offer here at the Museum, especially during the slower winter months. Michele Flynn, our Visitor Services Chief, came up with this idea. With cooking reality shows being such a big hit and MREs being such a big part of military life, it is a natural fit for us” said museum spokeswoman Gwenn Adams.
Participants in this event randomly draw two MREs from a box. Participants are allowed to dress up their meal by bringing any additional ingredients they would like to have with them during the event. However, it’s essential that it fits in a gallon sized bag, as glass containers are not allowed.
The gallon bag is important to the Museum because it’s the volume of the utility uniform’s cargo pocket which is where Marines store everything that they need to go into the field. The Museum is supplying a can of sterno as well as a folding sterno camp stove to assist in the process of cooking the entrées.
“Some examples of MRE packs are Beef Patty with Jalapeño Pepper Jack, and Southwest Style Chicken Stew. Each package usually included an entrée, a side, a dessert and a drink powder” said Adams.
The event starts at noon and is free attend. All museum-sponsored events are open to the public. For more information, email Michele Flynn at, [email protected].
