JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — There are seemingly countless events, milestones and holidays to celebrate in the military. You’ve got promotions, homecomings and all manner of reasons to be festive; and what goes better with celebrations than cake?

In this week’s Stories of Service, we’d like to introduce you to “The Cake Boss of Mayport.”

DeMon Lagrimas can be found hard at work inside the Galley at Naval Station Mayport; a place, that he says, has allowed him to flourish.

“The second I came here they gave me an opportunity,” said Lagrimas. “They liked what they saw and asked me to start baking for them in terms of celebratory cakes.”

When it comes to the large celebrations on base, Mayport turns to Lagrimas.

“I tried to think more creatively because I’m here, let me try to leave my mark on what I do for a job, which is cake decorating,” said Lagrimas.

Yes, it’s the little things like mixing batter, but the Petty Officer 3rd Class from California pushes himself to do more when possible.

“I always try to think outside the box,” said Lagrimas. “What has somebody not done that I could do that’s really going to make this stand out entirely?”

He’s been able to hone his craft during his five and a half years of service in the Navy, but his recipe for success comes from his family.

“When it comes to inspiration, a lot of times I’ll freestyle it, I look towards my grandma,” said Lagrimas. “She would always freestyle how she wanted to do her desserts or certain designs.”

Lagrimas isn’t sure where the future will take him, but while he’s at Mayport he’s surrounded by constant reminders to do his best, including a sign in the galley kitchen that reads: If You’re Not Proud of It, Don’t Serve It.

“As long as I’m here I’m going to make sure that my name is represented well and good in terms of what I do,” said Lagrimas.

DeMon Lagrimas said the first thing he baked was a pear pie when he was 10 or 12 years old and he said his mom woke him up that night to tell him how delicious it was.

Thanks to DeMon for his service and we can’t wait to see the next cake!

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