Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

U.S. Air Force Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian, demonstrates the process of boiling ramen for participants during the Cooking Connections cooking class at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. During the class, Suggs shared practical cooking techniques and budget-friendly recipes designed to help participants build confidence in the kitchen. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

U.S. Air Force Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian, slices open a soft-boiled egg during the Cooking Connections cooking class at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. Suggs used the egg as part of a ramen recipe taught in the Cooking Connections class. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

U.S. Air Force Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian, adds ramen noodles to a pot of boiling water during the Cooking Connections cooking class at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. The class focused on creating simple, flavorful meals while teaching practical nutrition and cooking skills that participants can use at home. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

A participant in the Cooking Connections cooking class grates carrots for a ramen recipe at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. Through hands-on instruction, participants explored techniques for preparing nutritious, affordable meals using everyday ingredients. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

U.S. Air Force Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian, slices mushrooms for a ramen recipe during the Cooking Connections cooking class at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. Suggs educated participants on three unique recipes involving ramen noodles. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

U.S. Air Force Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian, serves ramen to participants attending the Cooking Connections cooking class at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. The interactive class combined nutrition education, hands-on cooking, and a taste test, reinforcing healthy, budget-conscious meal preparation. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

A participant in the Cooking Connections cooking class samples a ramen recipe at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. The class concluded with a taste test, giving attendees the opportunity to sample the recipes they prepared and discuss the cooking techniques used. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

Participants in the Cooking Connections cooking class sample a ramen recipe at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas, July 23, 2026. Through hands-on instruction, participants explored techniques for preparing nutritious, affordable meals using everyday ingredients. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kylie Rabb)

Stepping In the Kitchen: MFRC Hosts Cooking Class

Published July 29, 2026
By Airman 1st Class Darryl Keith
47th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs

LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --

The Laughlin Military and Family Readiness Center (MFRC) hosted the Cooking Connections cooking class at Losano Fitness Center here, July 23, 2026.

Participants learned about various cooking techniques and flavor profiles to encourage healthy eating habits.

“Many Airmen may not have had the opportunity to learn basic cooking skills before joining the Air Force,” said Master Sgt. William Johnson, 47th Force Support Squadron MFRC readiness noncommissioned officer in charge. “Being able to prepare a healthy meal is not just about food. It is about building independence and readiness.”

Cooking Connections was started by the MFRC in 2020 due to a growing demand from Airmen and families to learn how to prepare meals at home. Since its inception, the program has given participants a hands-on experience to create affordable, nutritious meals.

“People at Laughlin commonly say there’s a bit of a food scarcity and people don’t have access to healthy food,” said Capt. Rebekah Suggs, Laughlin Medical Group operational support team dietitian. “That’s not entirely the case. You just have to think outside the box.”

Suggs led the class by showcasing three unique meals using instant ramen noodles as a base. The recipes included a spicy ramen noodle cup, “better for you” ramen and dan dan noodle salad. Class attendees were then able to try samples of each dish once they were finished.

“When you play music, you can have a melody and do all different kinds of things with it. You can do the same thing with food,” said Suggs. “We explored how to add to the noodles and make it more nutritious in a way that’s manageable for everyone.”

Each recipe revealed a new method for participants to maintain proper wellness. Cooking healthy meals aids Airmen by improving their physical health, reducing stress and staying fit to fight for every mission.

“Eating healthy sets your body up to stay healthy as you get older,” said Suggs. “You can’t do the things you need to do without the right fuel.”

By bringing the base together through food, Cooking Connections continues to invest in the readiness and future of Laughlin’s community.

“You don’t have to know anything about cooking to participate,” said Johnson. “You will leave with new knowledge and skills that will benefit you throughout your Air Force career and beyond.”