As the saying goes, “An army marches on its stomach.” Yet the essential contributions of those who cook, research, and serve food to hundreds of hungry troops often go unrecognised.

This new exhibition at the Shrine honours the vital work of the Catering Corps and unveils the fascinating science and innovation behind military meals.

Step into the world of military catering to explore what and how troops have eaten—from the Boer War to Afghanistan. This immersive exhibition brings you personal stories from cooks on submarines to soldiers with field rations, showcasing the skill and adaptability of Defence chefs. Whether cooking in combat zones or delivering fine dining for diplomats, these chefs embody resilience and creativity.

Discover what First World War soldiers thought of their rations, hear stories from the most unexpected “field kitchens,” and find out what’s in a modern-day ration pack.