Why do you eat?

[parafireboy]

While I hate to use the word "foodie" because it sounds so pretentious, I have to admit that I am one. I'm a bit of a military / military history buff as well. Combine the two and this just seems the natural hobby. It's fascinating to be able to sample so many different foods and beverages from around the world, and to be able to take those foods with you on hiking or camping trips and be able to enjoy a hot slice of pizza, a hamburger, etc. on the side of the trail is just amazing. I had my first MRE as a teenager in the early 90's and have been hooked since then. At home I always cook homemade things, but I always look forward to outings so I can dive into the ration collection.

[DangerousDave]

My Dad was U.S. Army Signal Corps, I was U.S. Army Infantry. When I was about 12 years old, My Dad bought 2 cases of MCI at a gunshow. That hooked me, for life. I was a test subject when the MRE replaced the MCI in the early '80's. Trying other countries rats is just fun. Woulda-Coulda-Shoulda.

[ViperGTS]

1987 beef slices was my first MRE when camping with my pops, I was about 10 at the time, making this ration 15 yrs old when eaten. (Members here helped me ID that ration, big ty)

It was a lasting memory for me and led to my interest. I had a few odd rations through the years given to me by my active Army friends but Steve1989, stickyfingaz, gundog, scotsman etc. fully rekindled the interest a couple years ago and i've been through the current US menu. I have some international rations pending consumption (a few different Russian and Korean and some US MCW)

I think it is a simple addiction for me as i am amazed at how long these things are good for and how good they still taste.