Today Mission BBQ, the Glen Burnie–based restaurant known for its American ideals and support of our country’s armed forces, hosted local emergency responders who continue to put their lives on the line, day in and day out, for the communities they serve.

The restaurant is welcomed all emergency and first responders to the restaurant today (September 11, 2012) to enjoy a complimentary sandwich of their choice. The noon hour included a special live performance of the National Anthem. Since opening on September 11, 2011, the restaurant has stopped service each day at noon for the National Anthem.

A number of fire trucks and police cars were on display to commemorate those who lost their lives during the attacks, including the traditional Crossed Ladders formation of two aerial trucks—their ladders extended and crossed with an American flag hanging from the apex. Anne Arundel County’s own police department traveled to New York on 9/11/2001 to provide backup and support to the NYPD.

Having become known for their American Heroes Cup, which honors the Wounded Warrior Project, Mission BBQ, introduced a limited-edition cup for sale ($3.99) with proceeds from this cup going to the Anne Arundel County Fraternal Order of Police and the Anne Arundel County Firefighters Union. 

"On September 11, 2001, our world changed forever.” said owner, Bill Kraus. “And we know where some of our bravest and finest were on that September morning—they were rushing into the fray risking, and at times giving, their lives to save the lives of others. We owe them a debt of gratitude that can never be repaid. It is because of those Heroic first responders, firefighters, police and EMS personnel, that our country truly is the Land of the Free because of the brave”

The event took place on Tuesday, September 11, 2012, from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at 7748 Ritchie Highway in Glen Burnie, Md. September 11, 2012, marks the one-year anniversary for the restaurant, which recently was awarded the title of Best BBQ by Baltimore Magazine. Mission BBQ will expand into Baltimore County later this year.