Military leaders address food shortages at Fort Carson dining facilities

The U.S. House Armed Services Committee convened on May 1, 2025, to address critical issues regarding military personnel and their welfare, particularly focusing on dining facilities for service members. The meeting featured discussions led by various military department personnel chiefs, highlighting the importance of adequate support for troops.

One of the key topics raised was the situation at Fort Carson, where soldiers reported inadequate food service at on-base dining facilities. Representative Crank emphasized the significance of proper meal provision, stating, "An army that's not fed is an army that cannot fight." He referenced a Military Times article detailing complaints from troops about improperly prepared food and empty kiosks during peak hours.

General Eifler acknowledged the concerns, labeling the situation as "unacceptable." He attributed the issues to a lack of forecasting regarding the return of forces from overseas, which led to insufficient food supplies. Eifler assured the committee that leadership at Fort Carson has since rectified the situation and emphasized the need for better organizational planning to prevent future occurrences.

In response to how the subcommittee could assist in ensuring dining facilities remain adequately stocked, Eifler discussed pilot programs aimed at privatizing dining services. This initiative would involve private companies managing the facilities, incentivizing them to provide quality food and service to service members.

The meeting underscored the committee's commitment to addressing the welfare of military personnel, particularly in ensuring that basic needs such as food are met effectively. The discussions highlighted the importance of leadership accountability and innovative solutions to enhance the dining experience for troops.