CNIC rolls out galley and health pilot programs to boost sailor well-being and warfighter readiness

WASHINGTON — The Navy’s shore enterprise is piloting two initiatives aimed at strengthening warfighter readiness by overhauling wellness services and modernizing food on base, Commander, Navy Installations Command (CNIC) announced May 27.

The Human Performance Optimization (HPO) program and a Shore food service transformation are rolling out as limited pilots, with the potential to scale to additional installations if successful.

“Warfighter readiness is inextricably linked to the quality of service and support we provide from the Shore,” said Vice Adm. Scott Gray, commander of Navy Installations Command. “By providing our Sailors with high-quality, nutritious food and top tier wellness resources, we are directly investing in their physical and mental resilience. A well-supported, healthy, and focused Sailor is a more lethal warfighter, and these pilot programs are a critical step toward ensuring our force is always ready to meet any challenge.”

The HPO pilot began Feb. 2 at Naval Base San Diego and expands support well beyond traditional fitness training. The program delivers expert-led, evidence-based instruction across sleep, injury prevention, stress management, and nutrition. Sailors can work with a dedicated team that includes a performance registered dietitian, a cognitive specialist, and human performance specialists, with access to one-on-one consultations and group classes. Topics include fueling and nutrition; sleep strategies; injury prevention and recovery; and stress management and cognitive performance. Services are available at the Harborside Sports & Fitness Complex on base.

Complementing HPO, CNIC is launching a Shore food service transformation intended to broaden culinary options and give Sailors more flexibility in using meal entitlements. Pilots begin this spring at Naval Base Kitsap and Naval Construction Battalion Center (NCBC) Gulfport.

At NCBC Gulfport, the pilot starts May 29 and centers on revitalizing the galley experience, introducing rotating ethnic food stations and a refreshed, modern interior. At Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, a pilot launching June 3 will allow Sailors to use meal entitlements not only at galleys but also at new Morale, Welfare, and Recreation (MWR) branded restaurants. Galleys will continue to promote healthy choices through the color-coded “Go for Green” program, part of the Navy Operational Fitness and Fueling System.

CNIC said the pilots are designed to improve daily life for Sailors while directly supporting the Navy’s focus on a resilient, ready force. If the initiatives meet objectives, they will be expanded to additional installations.

CNIC oversees worldwide U.S. Navy shore installation management, including quality-of-life programs and the sustainment and development of shore infrastructure. The command manages 10 Navy regions, 70 installations, and a workforce of more than 48,600 employees supporting warfighting and the manning, training, and equipping of the shore to fight and win. Navy installations serve as warfighting platforms that underpin fleet operations.