Students fire it up during 'Iron Chef' Published April 24, 2012 By Airman 1st Class Michael Smith 17th Training Wing Public Affairs GOODFELLOW AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- A barrage of aromas filled the room as students battled it out during the 'Iron Chef' competition April 21 at the Crossroads Student Center. In the event hosted by the Chapel office, eight teams raced against the clock in a bid to earn the coveted top chef title. After learning the secret ingredient, 'sweet potato,' the teams were given 30 minutes to gather any supplies they needed and to strategize how they would prepare their meals. They were tasked with making three meals that would be judged for creativity, taste, and presentation. "It was very exciting to see everyone work so hard," said Airman 1st Class Ninna Diaz, 315th Training Squadron event volunteer. "Some participants even had culinary backgrounds. They did very well and had the chance to show off their creativity." The final competition, judged by Col. Mark Damiano, 17th Training Wing Commander, his wife Ellery, Chaplain Lt. Col. Bruce Glover, 17th TRW and his wife Carol, saw Team Serrano Bombs take first place. "I'm a very self-critical person by nature," Airman 1st Class Ariel Rosenthal, Serrano Bombs team member said. "I was worried that the judges might dislike the dishes." Team Serrano Bombs won even after losing a teammate due to a prior engagement. The judges commented during their critique that it was their creativity and taste that gave them the lead by half a point. "I'm pretty pumped about winning," said Airman 1st Class Frank Andre, Serrano Bombs team member. "We were worried that we wouldn't be able to get everything done on time." Team Serrano Bombs won a gourmet meal which will be cooked by Col. William Golladay, 17th TRW Vice Commander. "To know someone of that rank is going to cook for me is an honor and privilege," Andre said. "It is what drove me to participate in this competition."
