JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
Due to sequestration, squadrons across Joint Base Charleston have had to make budget cuts to save money. One of the items recently eliminated on base was the take-out service at the Robert D. Gaylor Dining Facility, saving JB Charleston approximately $50,000 per year.
Effective immediately, JB Charleston military members, authorized Department of Defense civilians and retirees are allowed to bring their own containers to the DFAC to transfer food items to go.
"Public Health has concurred with the policy change as long as the personal containers are not handed over the counter, in and around the serving line area," said Master Sgt. Wesley Tuson, 628th Force Support Squadron Food Service Section chief and Dining Facility manager. "This is to prevent cross contamination and possible food-borne illness."
Below is the list of rules when bringing your own containers:
1. Customers must bring a container large enough to transfer food and beverage items.
2. Customers will proceed through the serving line area with a tray and order food items using the DFAC's plates, cups and silverware.
3. Once food is paid for or the meal card is swiped, customers will transition to the "food transfer area table" and complete the transfer of food and beverages into their own containers.
4. Customers will be responsible for cleaning any residual mess and placing their trays, plates and silverware in the buss cart.
"The typical serving sizes still apply regardless of personal carry-out use and what is served at the time," Tuson added.
"[Eliminating the take out containers] was not a popular change when it occurred, and with the support of base leadership and the team at Public Health, we were able to creatively change our processes," said Lt. Col. Jennifer Judd, 628th Force Support Squadron commander. "This solution helps meet our financial reduction targets and takes care of our Dining Facility customers who need an option to take out meals and get back to the mission."
Also, effective immediately, upon completion of their meals, all customers will need to place their own trays into the bussing carts provided in each dining area, according to Tuson.
"I ask that all of our customers remain patient and flexible as we consistently create ways to improve our service at the Gaylor Dining Facility," said Tuson.
For more information or concerns, contact Master Sgt. Wesley Tuson at 963-3595.