FORT BRAGG, N.C. - Everyone has a birthday and the Army is no different. As we all know, no birthday would be complete without the cake.
This year’s 2nd Annual Army Birthday Cake Challenge was held at the Fayetteville Veteran Affairs Medical Center auditorium. This competition was created to help celebrate the Army’s 238th anniversary June 14 and thank soldiers past and present for their service and sacrifice to our country.
Seven competitors gathered June 12 along with soldiers, veterans, members from Fort Bragg and surrounding communities to celebrate the Army’s 238th birthday.
“I’m so excited to be a part of this,” said Judith Mclean, owner and chef of Let Me Cater to You, personal chef and catering and a judge in the contest.
The cakes were judged based on taste, appearance, originality of design and presentation of theme. This year’s theme was "America’s Army: Service to the nation, strength for the future."
“I think this is neat as a civilian to become a part of the Army,” said Sheila Hanrick, owner of Kiss Me Cakes and first time participant. “I’m just excited to see how it all unfolds.”
The event began with the judges inspecting the cakes and taking notes. The last portion of the event was the taste test.
“That’s good right there,” said Mayor Chris Rey of Spring Lake, N.C., as he tasted the second contestant’s cake.
The judges completed their taste tests and Maj. Crystal Boring, XVIII Airborne Corps and Fort Bragg Public Affairs Office planner, added up the scores. The results were in.
Fort Bragg Garrison Command Sgt. Maj. Yolanda Tate, announced three winners while Renee Lane, director United Service Organizations for N.C. and Fort Bragg, presented them with gifts sponsored by Krispy Kreme Doughnuts, the USO, and Harry and David, a company famous for its gourmet gift baskets.
Hanrick won first place while Samantha Waechter took second and Patrice Taylor took third.
“I’m very proud to have been a part of the competition and proud to be a part of Fort Bragg,” said Hanrick. “My dad was a World War II veteran and I am very proud as a civilian to show how thankful I am and my gratitude for the Army.
Although it was a competition the event was filled happiness and laughter as veterans and employees filled the room admiring the unique designs and devouring the cakes.
“I think its great having such an event here at the VA medical center,” said Tate. This way we celebrate today’s soldiers while honoring those who came before us.