BAGRAM AIR FIELD, Afghanistan (September 7, 2008) – The new 1.5 million dollar Dragon Dining Facility grand opening ceremony Saturday began with a ribbon cutting by Brig. Gen. James McConville, Combined Joint Task Force-101 deputy commanding general of support, and Col. Scott A. Spellmon, Task Force Warrior commander.

“It has been attributed to Napoleon the idea that an army marches on its stomach,” said McConville.  “Simply put...Soldiers need good chow.”     

The old Dragon Dining Facility, built during Operation Enduring Freedom II, served over 11 million meals since it opened in November 2002.  Since opening its doors on September 1, the new facility has served over 24,000 meals to Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines and civilians. The new facility is located on Disney Drive at Bagram Air Field.

Built by Afghan contractors, the new dining facility has a seating capacity of 440 in the main dining hall and 60 in the VIP room.  It employs over 100 local Afghan workers.  With its cherry wood deco doors, tile floors and brand new equipment throughout, the new facility offers a dining experience similar to an all-you-can-eat buffet in the United States.