Chef Robert Irvine visits Nellis Air Force Base

Photo By Staff Sgt. Julian Kemper | Celebrity chef Robert Irvine demonstrates proper cutting techniques during his presentation at the Nellis Commissary on Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., July 19, 2019. During his visit, he gave service members and their families advice on how to cook using ingredients found throughout the commissary. Irvine and the Robert Irvine Foundation travel with military members 150 days a year, including USO tours, base visits and outreach programs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Julian W. Kemper)  

LAS VEGAS, NV, UNITED STATES

07.22.2019

Story by Senior Airman Julian Kemper 

Nellis Air Force Base

NELLIS AIR FORCE BASE, Nev.—Celebrity chef and television host Robert Irvine visited the Nellis AFB Commissary for a cooking demonstration and sit-down lunch with service members Friday, July 19, 2019.

“We brought him in to give back to the base community as an outreach-type program where he could meet-and-greet with service members,” said William Graham, Nellis Commissary store manager. “He’s actually a very strong supporter of the military.”

Irvine and the Robert Irvine Foundation travel with military members 150 days a year, including USO tours, base visits and other outreach programs.

“For me, it’s important to let the young men and women know that we know it’s tough; the deployments; and it’s hard being away from their families,” said Irvine. “But we’re here, we support them, and we love them.”

Irvine’s demonstration included a Q&A with commissary customers while he and his assistant chef made three dishes using ingredients available at the commissary. Irvine also provided cooking advice and tips based on the dishes he made.

After the demonstration, he signed copies of his latest cookbook, took pictures with shoppers, and had lunch with service members.

“I was very excited with how the program went,” said Graham. “I think it’s important to show we’re not just a grocery store; we’re a family. We want them to know there are people that care about them, and I think events like this are a way we can show that.”

Irvine visited Las Vegas with the Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS). He hosted surviving military families at a local hotel, where he owns his restaurant.

• Date Taken: 07.22.2019
• Date Posted: 07.22.2019 19:31
• Story ID: 332523
• Location: LAS VEGAS, NV, US