The Benjamin A. Sklaver Cafeteria: A proud but reflective day for ClearWater

On Tuesday, a four-member ClearWater delegation watched as the government of Kitgum District, the US Ambassador to Uganda and US Army Brigadier General James Owens -- a former superior of Ben’s, cut the ribbon on a joint USAID/US military civil affairs project, the Kitgum High School Cafeteria.

The military and USAID have completed many similar projects in Uganda, but none with such high level attendance. The joint civilian military project named in Ben's honor was fitting: he was one of few people who could easily cross between the drastically different organizational cultures.

There were several in attendance who knew Ben personally including Patrick Devy from Afrimax, who worked with Ben on many projects in 2007, and some local officials. Chairman of Kitgum Komakech Ogwok who met many generals, but was taken by Ben, called him a “simple and humble man" who “demystified a lot about the US Army” creating a positive image. Resident District Commissioner of Kitgum Omony Ogaba hoped that "Ben's spirit may empower others who use this facility to strive for lasting peace.”

The cafeteria itself was smartly appointed, with sturdy tables (unfamiliar to most dining halls here), a shiny brick floor and new cookery. Despite the Sklaver name, you probably won’t be eating any of Ben’s simple culinary favorites. And don’t expect anyone to take up the grill like he might to serve up simple American treats like hot dogs and hamburgers. No, at the Sklaver cafeteria, it will be rice, beans, boo and malakwang. It will be simple food, local food—the way it should be. And that, at ClearWater, makes us proud.