Q: I can appreciate the response you gave to person that asked the question about allowing civilian personnel the ability to eat at the Jewel of the East Mess (Action Line, Sept. 21). I agree that the active duty Sailors should be considered first and foremost for a military mess, and should be restricted to them, unless authorized by a special event. However, one of the concerns of the individual had great merit... the issue of healthy places to eat on base. It seams that Subway is the only place on base that a calorie conscious person can eat without feeling guilty. I know that Chili’s will open soon and this will be a plus, however, is there any plans to supplement or replace some of these fast food joints that plead the fifth on nutritional information?

A: Thank you for your comments. If you are not aware, there are numerous sitdown family-oriented restaurants on base and in the nearby community that offer a variety of healthy foods – including salads, baked fish, chicken and other lean, healthy items. Such items are available at all MWR clubs, and even such traditional “fast food” establishments as McDonalds. Also, Italian Gardens restaurant at Club Alliance offers healthy, delicious meals that many patrons enjoy. Additionally, there are literally dozens and dozens of Japanese restaurants within easy walking distance of the front gate, and traditional Japanese cuisine, with less emphasis on proteins and more on vegetables, is some of the healthiest in the world. There are currently no immediate plans to modify the overall food service offerings, especially since some of the fast food operations you mentioned are by far the most popular on base. But most operations will continue to offer a variety of healthy menu options.