JACKSONVILLE, Fla. –
Defense Logistics Agency Weapons Support at Jacksonville kicked off the fall season with a Chili Cookoff and Jersey Day team-building event on Naval Air Station Jacksonville in Florida. Reminiscent of a lively tailgate, the event which was designed to foster togetherness and strengthen bonds within the workforce, showcased camaraderie between Weapons Support at Jacksonville personnel and local fire fighters.
The atmosphere was electric, according to Navy Cmdr. Christopher Harvey, DLA Weapons Support at Jacksonville. director.
“Friendly banter and excited anticipation permeated throughout the space. From the moment you entered the building, you were greeted by a sea of employees wearing jerseys in support of their favorite college or professional teams,” he said.
The real star of the show and highlight of the event was the chili cookoff, which featured six unique chili recipes ranging from smoky and savory to spicy and sweet, each dish a testament to the creativity and culinary talents of DLA personnel.
Adding even more flavor to the competition was the esteemed judging panel from the Jacksonville Fire Department. Their expertise and discerning taste buds ensured an exciting evaluation of each contestant's fiery creation.
While every entry was a winner, there could only be one champion. For the third consecutive year, Lisa Steele emerged victorious! The competition was fierce, with the final scores separated by only two points, proving this year’s race to chili supremacy to be hotter than ever.
“Events like these are crucial for building a strong team,” Harvey said. “They bring people together, create shared experiences, and foster connections that extend beyond the workplace."
Harvey said the 2025 Chili Cookoff was more than just a fun event; it was a testament to the strong team spirit and dedication that define Weapons Support at Jacksonville.
“Events like this are a reminder that building camaraderie and fostering a positive work environment are key ingredients in our continued success,” he said. “The success of this event was due to the efforts of volunteers and the cooks who kept the party going. We look forward to more opportunities like this in the future to come together and strengthen the bonds that help make us a winning team.”