94 SVS trains on SPEK Published July 14, 2010 By Master Sgt. James Branch Public Affairs DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. -- Members of the 94th Services Squadron participated in quarterly training by setting up a Single Pallet Expeditionary Kitchen (SPEK) July 10 at Dobbins Lakeside Facility. The SPEK fits on a standardized load pallet, can be operated by as few as four Airmen, takes approximately four hours to set up and can be easily loaded on a C-130 aircraft. "With our SPEK we can provide 550 Airmen a hot meal within minutes after setup," said Master Sgt. Richard Moore, superintendent, 94th Services Combat Support Flight. This hardware is easily deployable and can be relocated in a very timely manner if needed." The SPEK is used to prepare and serve rations until a fully functional kitchen can be set up. It's mostly used in remote and undeveloped areas. "Right now, this system is the Air Force standard for expeditionary food service support," said Tech. Sgt. Michael Todd, prime rib manager, 94 SVS. Col. Timothy E. Tarchick, commander, and Command Chief Master Sergeant John M. Anderson of the 94th Airlift Wing visited the 94 SVS SPEK for lunch, which included shrimp scampi, vegetables, fruit, dessert, tea and water. "Thanks for everything you do," said Colonel Tarchick. "Your support not only sustains our force, but strengthens the morale of our warfighters." "Your skills and expertise are vital to our mission." said Chief Master Anderson. "Thank you for your commitment to excellence." The SPEK shelters the operators and equipment from the environment in a 3-section tent, including 480 square feet of specialized flooring that is weatherproof and provides easy sanitation after serving. "The first question I get from Commanders in the field is when will my Airmen get a hot meal," said Capt. Costau Bastien, operations officer, 94 SVS. "While Meals Ready To Eat (MREs) serve their purpose, it is very beneficial when our Airmen have the chance to sit together and have a cooked meal." The entire system is powered by a standard gasoline generator. "All we need is fuel and water, and we will make it happen," said Captain Bastien.
