CAPE MAY – When Rob Ohlsen went shopping for Thanksgiving dinner this year, the items on his grocery list looked like most people’s.
However, his quantities were nearly sky-high. He needed 100 pounds of turkey, 65 pounds of stuffing and mashed potatoes, and all the other typical sides that go along with the feast, because he planned to feed nearly 100 people Nov. 23 at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center Cape May.
Having cooked for staff, cadets and others stationed at the base for seven years now, Ohlsen, of Ocean City, has continued a tradition started by Coast Guard Auxiliary Association Flotilla 82 member John Burns.
For several years, Ohlsen said that Burns, of South Dennis, who died in 2023 after a career in education, welcomed Coast Guard crew members into his home to share Thanksgiving dinner with his family, including his wife, Christine.
“In 2019, driven by the desire to do even more, he collaborated with me and my wife, Teresa, to prepare and serve a full Thanksgiving feast for crew and their families stationed at Cape May,” Ohlsen said.
Ohlsen is a chef and a culinary arts instructor at the John F. Scarpa Cumberland County Technical Education Center, from which Burns retired as an administrator.
“Recognizing the sacrifices these individuals make, especially during the holidays, John initiated a tradition that brought comfort, connection, and joy to those spending Thanksgiving away from their families,” Ohlsen said.
“He was a good friend and mentor to me, and I am humbled to be able to continue the tradition.”
The endeavor is possible, in part, because of generous donations provided by Westside Meats, of Rio Grande, “whose support ensured that the Thanksgiving tradition could continue to grow and flourish,” Ohlsen said.
The event is now coordinated with Coast Guard Auxiliary member Don Dobson.
Ohlsen and his students cooked the meal and this year were able to use a new lunch truck from which to serve the food at the Training Center. “It helped to make this a pretty nice event,” the chef said, adding that his wife and students were among “the countless helping hands involved, creating a truly memorable experience for all.”
“For many of those serving at Cape May, it’s their first time away from home during a holiday,” Ohlsen said. “It warms my heart to be able to continue this tradition, bringing warmth and community to those who serve.
“John’s compassionate leadership and unwavering commitment to making the holidays brighter for others exemplified the true spirit of service and kindness. His efforts have left a lasting impact on the Coast Guard community and beyond, and he will forever be remembered with respect and gratitude.
“May we honor his memory by continuing the traditions he held dear and by striving to embody the same spirit of generosity and care that defined his life.”
Contact the reporter, Karen Knight, at kknight@cmcherald.com.
