In this episode of WETSU: a Battleship New Jersey Podcast, host and CEO Marshall Spevak welcomes a special guest—Bill Kraus, Co-Founder of Mission BBQ.

With more than 140 locations across 23 states, including several here in New Jersey, Mission BBQ has become a national symbol of patriotism served with a side of authentic, slow-smoked flavor. The company is also a proud catering partner of the Battleship New Jersey.

In this inspiring and wide-ranging conversation, Bill reflects on his early days as one of the first employees at Under Armour and how that experience fueled his entrepreneurial drive to create Mission BBQ. He shares stories behind the brand’s deeply rooted patriotic traditions, his favorite item on the menu, and his passionate support for the Global War on Terror Memorial Foundation in Washington, D.C.—a cause close to his heart.

Whether you’ve enjoyed Mission BBQ on board the Battleship or at one of their restaurants nationwide, you’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the company’s mission, its people, and the values that unite us all.

Special Note: This episode was recorded in early September 2025. On September 17, 2025, Bill’s son, U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer Three Andrew Kraus, age 39, was tragically killed along with three fellow soldiers in a helicopter training accident in the State of Washington. The entire Battleship New Jersey crew extends our deepest condolences to Bill and his family.

To make a donation to the GWOT memorial in Andrew’s honor, please visit: https://www.gwotmemorialfoundation.org/donate/

WETSU: A Battleship NJ Podcast is proudly sponsored by Engineers Labor Employer Cooperative ELEC 825.

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