Tragedy struck this week as Andrew Kraus, 39, the son of Mission BBQ co-founder Bill Kraus, was among four U.S. Army soldiers killed in a helicopter crash during a training mission in Washington State on Wednesday.
Maryland Governor Wes Moore offered condolences, stating: “Dawn and I are heartbroken to hear that Andrew Kraus, the son of Mission BBQ co-founder Bill Kraus, died alongside three other service members during a flight training. Mission BBQ began here in Maryland, rooting their values in service and community. Our entire state mourns alongside the Kraus family.”
Mission BBQ, founded in Maryland in 2011 by Bill Kraus and Steve Newton, has become a nationally recognized brand while remaining deeply tied to its mission of honoring those who serve. The restaurants are known for supporting veterans, active-duty military, and first responders, with proceeds from various initiatives directed toward military charities.
The news of Andrew’s passing has shaken both the local community and the Mission BBQ family nationwide, with many offering prayers and support for the Kraus family and the families of all four fallen soldiers.
