WHEREAS, Mission BBQ, which offers a wide selection of authentic regional barbecue fare while working to honor and support veterans in the Commonwealth and throughout the nation, opened a new location in Christiansburg in 2021; and

WHEREAS, combining their patriotism, commitment to community service, and passion for good food, Bill Kraus and Steve Newton established Mission BBQ in Glen Burnie, Maryland, on September 11, 2011; and

WHEREAS, using only the highest quality ingredients cooked fresh that day, Mission BBQ quickly developed a loyal following and opened its second location the following year; it has since expanded to dozens of locations in the United States, including several locations in Virginia; and

WHEREAS, true to its name, Mission BBQ works toward a greater purpose by supporting the men and women who serve the nation in uniform, hiring veterans, offering free food to veterans on remembrance days, and hosting fundraisers to support veterans, public safety officers, and their families; and

WHEREAS, Mission BBQ locations are decorated with memorabilia donated by local veterans, law-enforcement officers, and other first responders, making each dining room a unique reflection of its community; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED by House of Delegates, That Mission BBQ hereby be commended for its success as both a restaurant and a community partner on the occasion of the grand opening of its Christiansburg location; and, be it

RESOLVED FURTHER, That the Clerk of the House of Delegates prepare a copy of this resolution for presentation to the Christiansburg Mission BBQ as an expression of the House of Delegates' admiration for Mission BBQ's work to honor the service and sacrifice of veterans and public safety officers.