Marine Corps Air Station New River, N.C. -- Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron held its 3rd annual chili cook-off to support the squadron’s Marine Corps Birthday Ball at the Marine Corps Air Station New River Chapel, March 28.
Thirteen Marines and dependents entered their own signature brand of chili from Cincinnati-style to a Southern-style with an assortment of vegetables.
The event charged $5 per person for an all-you-can-eat experience of all the types of chili, each with a unique twist.
Overall, the event raised more than $450 for the ball, said Jennifer Anderson, H&HS family readiness officer.
The event was part of the Commander’s Cup series of events where one section within H&HS will earn 20 percent of the total proceeds to buy tickets for the ball, said Anderson.
The three judges gave points for appearance, aroma, taste and several other categories to determine the winner, said Anderson. All the entrants received high marks and the voting was close.
“We did not have one person say they did not like one of the chilies,” added Anderson.
After the bowls were empty and the votes were counted, Master Sgt. Christopher Wilson, air station ordnance chief, came out the winner.
Ordnance earned 50 points toward the Commander’s Cup.
“Love, care and the support of my family is the secret for my chili,” said Wilson after he was presented a trophy for his chili.
Marines with air traffic control maintenance took second place and Capt. Maurico White, ATC officer-in-charge, earned third place.
They earned 25 and 15 points toward the competition.
The squadron has scheduled several other events including an ultimate frisbee tournament, volleyball, and skeet shooting to determine the overall winner of the Commander’s Cup.