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5 Powerful Facts About Bill Kraus And MISSION BBQ: The $25 Million Mission To Honor America's Heroes

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The story of Bill Kraus and MISSION BBQ is not just about slow-smoked brisket and pulled pork; it is a profound narrative of patriotism, service, and unwavering commitment to America's heroes. Founded on the somber anniversary of September 11, 2011, the restaurant chain has grown from a single location in Glen Burnie, Maryland, into a national phenomenon with a core purpose that transcends the food industry. As of late 2025, the company's mission is more vital than ever, driven by a deeply personal connection to the military and first responder communities, cementing its place as an American institution that truly gives back. This article delves into the life of co-founder Bill Kraus, the company’s explosive growth, and the recent, deeply personal event that has brought the mission into sharp, emotional focus for the entire organization.

Bill Kraus: A Biography of Service and Entrepreneurship

Bill Kraus is the visionary co-founder of MISSION BBQ, a company built on the simple but powerful desire to Serve, Honor, and Thank America’s Heroes. His path to becoming a successful restaurateur was paved by a career that provided the business acumen and strategic vision necessary to scale a purpose-driven brand.
  • Full Name: William "Bill" Kraus
  • Role: Co-founder and Owner of MISSION BBQ
  • Co-founder: Steve Newton ("Newt"), who serves as the CEO.
  • Hometown/Upbringing: Grew up in Wisconsin.
  • Founding Date of MISSION BBQ: September 11, 2011.
  • Headquarters: Glen Burnie, Maryland.
  • Career Before MISSION BBQ: Kraus spent a significant portion of his career working in the restaurant and food service industry. A notable connection is his former professional relationship with Under Armour founder Kevin Plank, who became an early supporter of the MISSION BBQ brand.
  • Family Connection to Military: His son, Andrew Kraus, was an active-duty Army soldier.
Kraus and co-founder Steve Newton shared a deep passion for American barbecue and a profound respect for the men and women who serve the country. They spent a year traveling across the nation, sampling different regional barbecue styles to craft a menu that honors the diversity of American cuisine, all while developing a business model centered on community and service.

The Unwavering Patriotic Mission: Honoring Heroes Daily

The establishment of MISSION BBQ on September 11, 2011, was a deliberate and symbolic act. The date, marking the 10th anniversary of the 9/11 attacks, was chosen to ensure the company's core value—honoring the military, veterans, and first responders—would never be forgotten. This commitment is visible in every aspect of the restaurant experience. Every day, at precisely noon, the entire restaurant stops for the singing of the National Anthem. This tradition is a powerful, daily reminder to both employees and customers of the company's patriotic foundation and serves as a moment of collective gratitude.

The $25 Million Impact of Charitable Giving

MISSION BBQ is renowned for its extensive charitable giving, which has become a cornerstone of its business model. Since its founding, the company has donated over $25 million to vital charitable organizations that support America’s heroes. This massive financial commitment is a testament to the founders' dedication to making a tangible impact. Key charitable entities and partnerships include:
  • Wreaths Across America (WAA): MISSION BBQ is a major partner, helping to lay wreaths at the graves of fallen veterans across the country. In a recent campaign, the company and its customers announced a significant donation exceeding $350,000 to WAA.
  • Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation (GWOTMF): MISSION BBQ has been a crucial financial supporter, recently announcing a donation of over $1.4 million to help fund the memorial in Washington, D.C. Bill Kraus is also personally involved with the foundation.
  • USO (United Service Organizations)
  • Wounded Warrior Project
  • Semper Fi & America's Fund
  • Local Fire and Police Charities: The company actively supports local first responder organizations in every community it enters.
This philanthropic model, centered on a "Servant's Heart" culture, is what differentiates MISSION BBQ from typical fast-casual dining chains.

A Personal Tragedy Deepens the Mission

In a deeply moving and recent update that has resonated across the company and the nation, the patriotic mission of Bill Kraus and MISSION BBQ was tragically reinforced. In a recent year, Bill Kraus's son, Andrew Kraus, an active-duty Army soldier, was killed in a helicopter crash during flight training. This devastating personal loss has brought the company’s core purpose—to honor and thank those who serve—into a sharper, more emotional focus. The tragedy underscores the real-world risks and sacrifices made by military families, transforming the company's charitable efforts from a business value into a profound, personal legacy. The entire MISSION BBQ community has rallied to support the Kraus family, further solidifying the company's commitment to the military community it serves.

The Rapid Expansion and Menu That Defines American BBQ

Since its inception in 2011, MISSION BBQ has experienced explosive growth, demonstrating that a strong mission is a powerful business driver. The company has expanded beyond the East Coast into the Midwestern United States, becoming one of the fastest-growing restaurant chains in the country.

Expansion and Growth Entities

  • Current Locations: As of late 2025, MISSION BBQ operates approximately 152 locations across the United States.
  • Top State: Florida hosts the largest share of locations, reflecting the company’s strategic growth in areas with large veteran and military populations.
  • Employees: The company employs approximately 2,000 people across its locations.

Menu Highlights and LSI Entities

The menu itself is a tribute to America’s culinary landscape, featuring various regional barbecue styles, all cooked over oak and hickory wood for a signature smoky flavor. The focus on quality and authenticity ensures that the food lives up to the company’s high standards of service. Popular and must-try menu items include:
  • Signature Smoked Meats: Texas-style Brisket, Pulled Pork (hand-pulled and hickory-smoked), Bay-B-Back Ribs, and Smoked Turkey.
  • Famous Sides: The Baked Beans, which are infused with tender brisket for a unique flavor, and the creamy Mac-n-Cheese are fan favorites.
  • Regional Favorites: Kickin' Collard Greens (one of the most popular items), Cornbread, and Fresh-Cut Fries.
The success of MISSION BBQ, spearheaded by co-founders Bill Kraus and Steve Newton, proves that a business can achieve massive commercial success while staying true to a deeply patriotic, altruistic mission. The company’s continued expansion and charitable impact ensure that the message to "Serve, Honor, and Thank" America's heroes is heard one plate of delicious barbecue at a time.
bill kraus mission bbq
bill kraus mission bbq

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