Jennifer Davis's Story

Pit Boss Nation, join us in recognizing our November Hero of the Month: Jennifer Davis!
Jennifer has served 16 years in the United States Air Force. Throughout her years of service, Jennifer
has been honored with various recognitions, including an Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force
Commendation Medal, and Joint Service Commendation Medal. She was named Staff Sergeant in
2011 and Master Sergeant in 2023.
She was nominated to be a Pit Boss Hero of the Month by her mother, who says she expertly
balances her work and family life, saying she always puts her family first and shows her children
the meaning of dedication.
She also commended Jennifer for her service while deployed to Kuwait, in which she volunteered to
take another airman’s position. She has also been deployed to Afghanistan.
Jennifer and her husband Teverance are parents to three children.
In her free time, Jennifer throws down on the grill multiple times a week, according to her mom.
One of their most memorable grilling experiences was following Jennifer’s graduation from joint
communications when her husband smoked ribs and brisket for family visitors.
Thank you for your service, Jennifer!

Christopher Tankelewicz's Story

Meet our October Pit Boss Hero of the Month: Chris Tankelewicz!

He’s a detective serving the county District Attorney’s office criminal investigation division. Chris is responsible for conducting digital forensic investigations, largely dealing with the safety of children in the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

Chris was nominated for his commitment to serving his community, noting that his family is what sparks this dedication to service and desire to give 100%.

His work doesn’t stop when he’s off the clock though, as he gives of his free time to give back in his community in other capacities. That includes cycling in charity bike rides each year to raise money and awareness for The Hero Scholarship fun, which aids children of police officers and firefighters who are killed in the line of duty.

Chris can also be found coaching his children in their various sports and activities and cheering them on to success or firing up the Pit Boss to throw down delicious barbecue for his family and friends.

When Chris is behind the grill, he’s typically smoking ribs and brisket. He regularly posts on Instagram when he has his smoke rolling and doesn’t shy away from showing off his barbecue creations from prep to finished product.

Thank you for your service, Chris!

Maurice Lewis's Story

We’re excited to announce our September Pit Boss Hero of the Month: Maurice Lewis!

Maurice was nominated by his wife for his more than 20 years of military service and love of country. She described him as a thoughtful, selfless person who “cares about everyone he meets in such a way that he leaves his imprint on their hearts.”

She said, “Our country is truly the land of the free because of brave soldiers like my husband, Maurice. Selfless service and willingness to sacrifice his life for others.”

His family supports his career and dedication to service, noting that his inspiration is not the enemies that may lie ahead, but his love and care for the family, friends, and citizens he has to leave behind.

Whether at work or at home, Maurice is known for bringing people together and making others laugh – especially when gathering around the grill.

His wife says not only does he love grilling, but his family loves it when he grills too. In fact, they’d choose his smoked ribs or “kickin’ chicken” over going out to dinner any day!

Thank you for your service, Maurice!

Brian Garrett's Story

Introducing the Pit Boss Hero of the Month for August: Captain Brian Garrett!

Brian was nominated for this distinction due to his “steadfast commitment to not only protecting the community but also improving it.”

He began his career in law enforcement more than 20 years ago, now serving with the Long Branch Police Department in New Jersey. Brian is said to have chosen this particular career path with the goal of making a difference in the community by helping others.

Over the course of his career, he has taken on various roles and responsibilities, including a recent promotion to Captain. However, despite any changes through the years, one thing has remained steadfast: his commitment to helping others.

One of his recent initiatives was implementing community outreach programs specifically geared toward helping those dealing with issues regarding mental health and/or addiction.

Brian’s passion for helping others is said to be matched by his love of BBQ and grilling. He’s traveled often for barbecue events in various states, including Smoke Slam BBQ Festival in Memphis, Tennessee, to assist with BBQ demonstrations for the National Barbecue and Grilling Association.

Thank you for your service, Brian!

Cory Pilzer's Story

Meet our July Pit Boss Hero of the Month: officer Cory Pilzer!

Cory has served with the New York City Police Department as a patrol officer for over 11 years. He’s now the traffic safety officer in his precinct.

He was nominated by his wife, who highlighted his accomplishments not only as a police officer, but also as a dedicated husband and father.

The numerous awards and recognitions Cory has received speak for themselves, such as the Patrolman Arthur Pelo Award of Valor, two Meritorious Police Duty department recognitions, six Excellent Police Duty department recognitions, and two Unit Citations department recognitions – just to name a few.

His wife noted that Cory is dedicated to serving his community, on or off duty. This is best evidenced by his quick response to an attempted suicide while off duty. While out walking, Cory saw a man attempting to climb the fence along a bridge in New York, intending to jump.

Cory quickly sprang to action, cautiously approaching the man and bringing him to safety. His quick and professional response meant they were able to receive the appropriate aid, and the situation was resolved with no loss of life or injury.

Thank you for your service, Cory!

Ryan Sharp's Story

Pit Boss Nation, join us in recognizing our June Pit Boss Hero of the Month: Captain Ryan Sharp!

Captain Sharp is an F-16 flight instructor pilot, 162^nd Wing, Morris Air National Guard Base. Serving in this capacity is something he knew he wanted to do since he was a kid.

After graduating college, he earned his private pilot’s license and continued his education, earning a master’s degree in systems and industrial engineering before interviewing with the U.S. Air National Guard.

He went on to F-16 training and graduated as a Second Lieutenant. He served for a decade before taking an instructor pilot position.

Despite his impressive resume, when he was nominated to be a Pit Boss Hero, it was his volunteer spirit and heart for others that prompted the submission.

In fact, it was noted that while serving, Ryan is known for volunteering for the jobs that others didn’t want, such as ALERT so that others could be with their family.

While serving with the New Jersey Guard, Ryan donated a vertical smoker to the unit and would regularly smoke meat for his maintenance crew and flight line employees.

When he became an instructor pilot, Ryan took over the “airmen’s snack store,” taking the time to clean it, reorganize, and bring in new food options – often using his free time outside of work to make the trips to replenish stock.

He also still volunteers for ALERT on top of his assigned duty, taking the time to smoke meat for the maintenance crew on duty to show his appreciation for them and his fellow pilots.

Thank you for your service, Ryan!

Shelly Dupont's Story

Join us in recognizing our May Pit Boss Hero of the Month, Shelly Dupont! 

Superintendent Dupont has been a member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for 36 years, serving in five Canadian provinces and remote fly-in communities throughout her career. 

She was nominated for Pit Boss Heroes by her husband who says she chose her career path out of a desire to assist people experiencing difficult circumstances, often because of situations over which they have little or no control. This is what led her to help establish a Victim Services unit in the Province of Manitoba early in her career. 

Off duty, she holds a few other titles, including wife, stepmother, and grandmother. She also dedicated some of her time off to earning a Master of Laws degree specializing in Constitutional Law.  

In addition to her academic pursuits, she enjoys a wide range of hobbies: scuba diving, kayaking, photography, baking, pottery, and entertaining. Her husband says the last one is possibly her favorite, since it brings her joy to plan and prepare meals for friends, family, and neighbors.  

While he says that he’s more likely to be the one behind the grill, she enjoys the time spent together cooking on their assortment of grills and having others over to take part in the meals they create. 

Thank you for your service, Superintendent Shelly Dupont! 

Jonathon Horton's Story

We are excited to announce our April Pit Boss Hero of the Month: Sheriff Jonathon Horton!

Jonathon serves as a county sheriff in Alabama with more than a decade of experience in law enforcement and a stint in the military.

He was nominated by an assistant principal in the school district where Jonathon serves for “his commitment to helping others succeed in life, and his commitment to helping young people.”

The nomination was sparked by him seeing the difference that Jonathon makes in the lives of students by offering guidance and becoming a mentor to them. He’s always willing to visit the school district, making time to talk with students and connect them with necessary resources.

Jonathon chose his career path out of a desire to serve his community and is described as “an example of what it means to lead with a servant’s heart.” In fact, they went on to say that he doesn’t shy away from those who have made mistakes, but instead is empathetic and does his best to help those who need it.

One example is his commitment to The SPAN program of Etowah County. He is committed to supporting that program and visiting often to encourage students who are struggling to catch up on school credits.

Jonathon also leads a Charity each Christmas to buy gifts for children each year. Many, many students benefit from this charity, and it makes a big difference in the lives of those families.

In his free time, he can be found throwing down on his Pit Boss pellet grill! Jonathon loves to spend time grilling with and for his family, friends, and community.

Thank you for your service, Sheriff Horton!

Katie Peterson's Story

We are excited to announce our March Pit Boss Hero of the Month: Katie Peterson! 

Katie works as an ER nurse and a first responder for the Saxeville Fire Department in Wisconsin. She has served in those roles for 6 and 4 years, respectively.  

This particular career path was sparked by a desire to follow in her mother’s footsteps to become an RN and to serve her community and give back.  

She was nominated to be a Pit Boss Hero of the Month for “always putting her patients first and excelling in patient care.” 

Furthering her education is also important to Katie, drawing inspiration from her patients to take additional courses and continue her education with the ultimate goal of taking the best possible care of her patients that she can.  

She was nominated by a family member who noted that Katie stands out in her field for her ability to share what she’s learned with her coworkers, saying everyone enjoys working alongside her. They also noted how well she gets along with patients and her ability to calm them and their family members during times of stress.  

When she isn’t working, Katie enjoys being part of Pit Boss Nation, regularly throwing down meals on her Pit Boss smoker. Her favorite thing to make is chicken wings, infusing them with the smoky flavor she loves.  

Thank you for your service, Katie!  

Greg Volpe's Story

Pit Boss Nation, please join us in recognizing our Pit Boss Hero of the Month for February: Greg Volpe!

Greg has served as a volunteer firefighter/EMT for the past 16 years and was nominated by his wife “because of his dedication not only to his family, but his community.”

It’s Greg’s inspiration for choosing to serve that makes him stand apart, she says, as it’s rooted in kindness and thoughtfulness and is evident in everything he does.

In fact, his compassion and gentle, understanding nature is what prompted her to nominate him for Pit Boss Hero of the Month. Especially since, in emergency situations, the ability to remain calm is crucial.

“Greg's calm and comforting demeanor contributes significantly to his effectiveness as a first responder,” she noted. “His approach helps alleviate anxiety for those in distress and harbors a sense of trust and security.”

Greg’s heart for others is also evident in how he chooses to spend his free time. For example, his wife mentioned that on Christmas morning, Greg could be found delivering a meal of barbecue that he made to the firehouse for those who had to work that day.

“His willingness to volunteer his time and expertise to assist those in need is truly admirable and represents the epitome of selfless service,” she said.

He shares his barbecue skills with his family as well, cooking up food like spatchcock chicken, pork belly burnt ends, and brisket for his wife and children. He’s also known to cook up enough food to ensure a family member living alone is stocked up throughout the week.

“His favorite grilling experiences are the ones where he cooks for (others),” his wife said. “Greg loves to make other people happy with his cooking.”

Thank you for your service, Greg!

Justin Scherer's Story

Pit Boss Nation, join us in celebrating our January 2024 Hero of the Month: SMSgt Justin Scherer!

Justin serves in the 194th Wing, Washington Air National Guard. He has served for more than 12 years and does so out of a desire to support the community he’s a part of.

Justin is said to love working with others and empowering them to perform missions, such as Operation Allies Welcome, receiving refugees from Afghanistan, fighting forest fires in Washington, and global airspace monitoring through the Western Air Defense Sector.

Something that makes this hero stand out is his commitment to the community, despite the fact that he isn’t originally from the area. According to the person who nominated him, Justin loves the community and encourages others to get out and enjoy the local trails and mountains.

Each summer, he leads guided tours to the top of mountains like Mt. Rainer and Mt. Adams. Next year, he plans to guide an entire unit at Mt. Adams.

In his free time, Justin enjoys spending time behind the grill. In fact, he is said to have brought grilling/smoking to work with him in the past.

When asked about Justin’s favorite grilling experience, they noted that it’s likely when he grilled with his boss at Langley Air Force Base in Virginia.

Justin managed to convince him that it was a great idea to put a smoker on the third-floor office fire escape. And, for six months, they smoked meat each Friday. Until the base fire marshal got wind of it and decided it wasn’t such a great idea after all.

Thank you for your service, Justin!

Jade Dennill's Story

We would like to recognize Jade Dennill as our Pit Boss Hero of the Month for December!

Jade is a firefighter in Victoria, B.C. and has served in this capacity for the past year, a goal he said he worked tirelessly to achieve.

He says he’s proud to call himself a firefighter due to the rewarding work of serving his community and having a positive impact on the residents.

“I wanted to come home from work and feel good about the difference I’ve made in my community and to every individual I have the privilege of helping in what could be a very traumatic or difficult time in their life,” he said.

Jade chose to become a firefighter not only to have a positive impact on his community, but also to show his children the value of pursuing something worthwhile and working hard to reach that goal.

He’s known among his peers for his work ethic and the energy and positivity he brings to the job (and also for being a good cook).

In fact, grilling and smoking are two of his favorite methods. When asked about his favorite experience using a pellet grill, Jade said it was the first time he ever fired it up after harvesting his first elk.  

Thank you for your service, Jade!

Brian Waite's Story

Pit Boss Nation, please join us in celebrating our November Hero of the Month: Brian Waite!

Senior Master Sergeant Brian Waite is a Sensor Operator who has served in the U.S. Air Force for the last 17 years. Prior to joining the Air Force, he served 10 years in the U.S. Marine Corp Reserves.

Brian was nominated by his wife, who describes him as “a hard worker, strong, determined man who also has a heart of gold, an ear to listen and always willing to help.” She says these characteristics made him perfect for the military so that he can serve while being a “humble hero.”

Even in his time off, Brian is known to find ways to help out in the community, whether it’s coaching Rifle at his son’s school, serving as a Boy Scout Committee Chairman or organizing a toy drive for a local children's hospital. And that’s just to name a few examples.

In his free time, Brian still manages to make his grilling hobby all about serving others. In fact, his wife says that he does the bulk of the cooking during the summer months, getting the most use out of his grill.

Various cuts of meat, kabobs, pizza, and more are typically on the menu. Their family favorite recipe is marinated flank steak that Brian grills to perfection!

Thank you for your service, Brian!

Christopher Guillory's Story

We would like to recognize Christopher Guillory as our October Hero of the Month!

Christopher has served in the military for nearly 24 years and continues to do so, saying he loves his job. Following 15 years on Active Duty in the Army, he transitioned to full time service in the Virginia Army National Guard.

“After spending almost three and a half years away from my family,” Christopher said of being deployed four times, “I know the meaning of sacrifice and appreciate the freedoms we defend daily.”

Now he serves as the Director of Plans, Training, and Security for Fort Barfoot in Virginia.

“I come from a long line of military service, as my dad and three of his brothers also made careers in the military including service during the Vietnam War,” he said, adding, “My grandfather fought courageously in Europe in World War II. I am sure this goes way back for generations, and my kids continue to carry the tradition as two of the three are already serving in the Army as well.”

“I am proud to put on my uniform daily and serve our great nation,” he said.

Thank you for your service, Christopher!

Gary Phillips's Story

Join us in recognizing our Pit Boss Hero of the Month, Gary Phillips!

He’s known for his passion for serving others through his work in law enforcement and woodworking. Gary is a retired police officer who dedicated 36 years to both the city of Toronto and York Region Police in Ontario.

If you ask Gary, one of his biggest challenges to help those in need was during his time spent at Ground Zero in New York City following the attacks on the World Trade Center. As a member of the Critical Incident Stress Management Team, Gary and several members on the team spent time with first responders offering peer support.

For Gary, woodworking became an escape from the stress of the job.

Now retired, Gary has purchased 50 acres on the North Shore of Nova Scotia where he has started a retreat for Police, Fire, EMS & Military members diagnosed with PTSD. 

As a survivor of PTSD himself, Gary shares his passion of woodworking with others to help create a happy, positive learning environment where they can be creative. Those who participate in the Rough Cuts program start by falling a tree and processing the lumber, then they design a project and use their lumber to bring it to life.

At the end of a day spent working at Rough Cuts, Gary enjoys sharing a meal with those he loves. His favorite meal to make with his Pit Boss is breakfast for his family, friends, or visiting first responders, officers, or military members.

Gary says, “The more food I can get on the grill, the better the taste, the more satisfied the hungry bellies. And that’s what it’s all about.”

Thank you for your service, Gary!

Mark Davis's Story

We would like to recognize Lieutenant Mark Davis as our August Pit Boss Hero of the Month!

After serving as a firefighter for over 25 years, Mark is now retiring. He was nominated by his crew, and they say: “Lt. Davis has always had a passion for the job, whether it is putting out a fire, or rescuing someone from a car wreck, he is always ready to serve his community.”

Throughout his career, he has taken part in technical rescue, swiftwater rescue, truck work, and more. His team says Mark’s knowledge and skills have helped the fire department get to where they are now. 

“The camaraderie and brotherhood in the fire service is like no other,” crewmembers say. “Lt. Davis is always willing to teach the younger generation firefighters his knowledge and continue the traditions and values that make the fire service great.”

During his time at Station 3, Mark and his crew began a new tradition that they called "Smoke House Saturday and/or Sundays." So, if they were on shift over the weekend, they would smoke meat, enjoying everything from briskets to wings.

Thank you for your service, Mark, and congratulations on your retirement!

Kevin Cochrane's Story

This month's Pit Boss Hero is a member of the Canadian military with more than two decades of service. Join us in recognizing our July Hero of the Month, Kevin Cochrane! Kevin has served in the Canadian military for more than 22 years, and currently serves at the 17 Wing in Winnipeg Manitoba. I started as an infantry soldier and served in that field for over 8 years with a tour in Afghanistan in 2006, Kevin said. He's now a Search and Rescue Technician (SAR Tech) with the Royal Canadian Air Force. Kevin has been a SAR Tech for the past 14 years and has taken part in many rescue missions. I chose to be a SAR Tech for the adventure, to help those in need, and to serve my community and country, he said. Kevin has served his country for his entire adult life and is said to be a dedicated father and husband, always putting the needs of others ahead of his own. In his free time, he can be found behind the grill serving up steaks, ribs, and burgers for his family and friends. I love to have big backyard BBQs with the whole family, playing outdoor games and eating good BBQ, he said. Thank you for your service, Kevin!

Ronald Schott's Story

Join us in recognizing our Pit Boss Hero of the Month for June, Ronald Schott! Ronald was assigned to the 6949th ESS at Offutt Air Force Base in Nebraska from 1985 to 2004. He served as a crewmember onboard RC-135V/W RIVET JOINTaircraft as an Airborne Maintenance Technician (AMT). Over his 20-year career as an AMT, he was deployed in support of numerous operations, such as Just Cause, Desert Shield, Desert Storm, and Enduring Freedom. Throughout his career, he earned 5 Air Medals and 13 Aerial Achievement Medals and amassed over 2,000 combat flight hours. If you were to ask Ronald why he chose to serve, he'd respond simply: Love of the United States of America and the United States Constitution. He says it's his commitment to his country, the United States Air Force, the RIVET JOINT program, and his family and friends that kept him going. Ronald is also quite the skilled pitmaster. In his free time, he enjoys serving up delicious food for his friends and family. The best experience I had was when my neighbors came over to enjoy a smoked rib dinner, he said. They raved about the ribs, saying they were the best tasting and most tender they ever had. Thank you for your service, Ronald!

Charles Carey's Story

This month's Pit Boss Hero is a first responder with a passion for barbecue and helping others. Join us in recognizing our May Hero, Charles Carey! Charles has served the past 7 years as a firefighter, paramedic, and hazmat technician in Florida. I chose this career to help people, he said. I felt that by choosing this career, I'm helping make the world a better place. If I can treat every person with kindness, hopefully the kindness begins a trend and carries on to others. And that isn't something Charles just says his work in the field backs it up. In fact, he has been awarded a Medal of Valor after saving a woman's life during a house fire. I'm always an advocate for the patient/victim, and I continuously treat every civilian as if they were my own family member, he said. When he's off duty, you can typically find Charles firing up the Pit Boss to cook for family and friends. He's also quite the active competition barbecuer. Charles has competed with the Steak Cookoff Association and in the World Championship of steak cooking in Ft. Worth, Texas. He's earned the nickname of the Steak Guy among his peers. Since then, he has also taken on multiple cooking competitions with his Local 3169 Union for fundraisers, winning a King of the Wing competition and a recent Chili Cook-off. Cooking helps me decompress and provides me with the satisfaction of making others happy in normal situations, rather than what I can do during life-or-death situations, Charles said. Thank you for your service, Charles!

Steven Kitchens's Story

We would like to recognize Steven Kitchens as our April Pit Boss Hero of the Month! Steven has served for more than 12 years as Combat Engineer in the Army, currently stationed at Fort Leonard Wood as he completes his instructor duties. I chose to be a Combat Engineer due to the diversity of the equipment we use and to ensure our brethren have a safe route to travel so they are able to accomplish their mission, he said. Steven has deployed three times to Iraq and Afghanistan. It was during his third deployment that he earned a Purple Heart. I still battle with PTSD, although I try not to let the experience control my life, Steven said. I'm thankful to have such an amazing support system that encouraged me to continue my military service. The most rewarding experience I have from serving is the opportunity to make an influence in other people's lives. When he isn't working, Steven can be found throwing down delicious food on his Pit Boss. He loves to grill and smoke meat, vegetables and sides, but his favorite things to make are pizza and burgers. The flavor and juiciness are unbelievable, he says. Thank you for your service, Steven!

Katelynn Sheehan's Story

Pit Boss Nation, please join us in celebrating our March Pit Boss Hero: Katelynn Sheehan! Katelynn is an accomplished and dedicated volunteer firefighter, NREMT, mother, and dog groomer. She was nominated by her husband, who says she works in a roughly 200 square mile service district. Katelynn has served six years in Public Safety Diving for rescue and recovery and two years as a firefighter and NREMT. As for what makes her stand out from the rest, her husband says it's her dedication to her community and her love of service and helping others without expecting anything in return. She goes above and beyond any other volunteer firefighter/EMT that I have ever seen, he said. I've gotten to witness her patient care and dedication to each individual regardless of what the circumstances are. When she isn't working as a first responder or with her dog grooming business, Katelynn enjoys spending time with her family and gathering around the grill. In fact, she loves to grill and exclusively uses her Pit Boss pellet smoker! She and her husband are part of a competition team in South Dakota called Backdraft BBQ, and they love to fire up their Pit Boss year round! Last year, Katelynn took home top honors for her smoked pulled pork recipe in a Backyard BBQ Competition. Thank you for your service, Katelynn!

Ramsey Millsap's Story

We would like to recognize TSgt. Ramsey Millsap as our January Pit Boss Hero! Ramsey recently celebrated 10 years of service as an Air National Guardsman. He began his career as an Aircraft Electrician working on KC-135 Stratotankers for the 161st ARW Copperheads at Sky Harbor, Arizona. He has also worked on C-130s and MQ-9s for the 152nd High Rollers in Nevada. TSgt Millsap serves in the Air National Guard because the broad impact that it has on the state and nation. He loves working with people and empowering them to perform missions like national security in Washington DC, operation Allies Welcome receiving refugees from Afghanistan, civil unrest response in downtown Seattle, global airspace monitoring through the Western Air Defense Sector, and many other major efforts that are undertaken by the 194th Washington Air National Guard. When he isn't working, Ramsey is known for smoking delicious meals for those at the 194th Mission Support Group. He's spent many hours of his own time to lift their spirits by cooking up delicious things like brisket and pulled pork. He takes pride in getting things just right so that people can sit and enjoy a meal together, serving up plenty of briskets, ribs, pulled pork, and more. Every year around the winter holidays, their unit gets together to celebrate. In 2021, Ramsey volunteered to cook all the meat for the group to not only feed all the members, but also their families as well. Thank you for your service, Ramsey!

James Bain's Story

Join us in honoring our December Hero of the Month, James Bain! James is a U.S. Air Force veteran who was deployed all over the world. Following his retirement from the military, he began working for Customs and Border Protection. He spent 21 years in that role, for a combined total of 41 years serving his country. As for why he decided to pursue this profession, James said he did so out of pride for his country and a desire to protect its people and their freedoms. Even in his free time he works to give back to his community by serving as a member of the Lions Club, a non-profit organization that organizes fundraisers to provide scholarships for area students as well as turkey baskets and box fans for those in need. Every Sunday, James says he like to grill using his Pit Boss Austin XL. He also enjoys smoking racks of ribs and turkeys for Thanksgiving. Thank you for your service, James!

Matt Young's Story

Our November Pit Boss Hero of the Month has dedicated the last 18 years to serving his community as a law enforcement officer. Matt Young is a deputy for the Warrick County Sheriff's Office in Southern Indiana. Throughout his career he has been a patrolman, narcotics detective, school resource officer, and a field training officer. He was nominated by his wife who says Matt works hard and makes sacrifices to help keep his community safe. Matt chose this career out of a desire to make a difference in the area where he grew up, which is where he and his wife now raise their 3 children. Matt is currently assigned to a school district, where he serves as a school resource officer. Recently, while on duty, he saved a child from choking at school. Each day when he reports to work, he never knows what the day will hold. However, his wife says he always rises to the occasion. When he isn't working, Matt loves to spend his free time grilling with family and friends. He especially enjoys grilling for both of his sons' baseball teams. Thank you for your service, Matt!

Bill Schnippert's Story

This month's Pit Boss Hero is an active member of Pit Boss Nation and retired law enforcement officer. Join us in thanking Bill Schnippert for his service! Bill is a retired sheriff who worked for more than 3 decades for the Jacksonville Department of Corrections. He's known for his love of helping others. The person who nominated Bill said, He wanted to be a nurse, fireman, or police officer. At the Department of Corrections, he got to be all 3. That desire for serving others and helping out in his community didn't end with retirement. Bill carries that spirit of service with him into his day-to-day life by giving back to those who share a similar interest. Bill was nominated by a founder of a social media group for Pit Boss owners, where Bill has been a moderator. He's on multiple Pit Boss platforms with the goal of spreading his knowledge with others. He's always willing to lend a hand, answer questions, or address concerns every day. Others describe him as a Pit Boss guru! Bill loves to fire up his Pit Boss 700FB and smoke various meat cuts. But his favorite is turkey, as he is known to smoke 2 or 3 each month for his family to enjoy. Very fitting, since he loves the Thanksgiving holiday and celebrating with those he loves. (Especially with a smoked turkey!) Thank you for your service, Bill!

James (Jay) Howell's Story

We're proud to announce our September Hero of the Month is LTC James (Jay) Howell! Jay serves in the U.S. Army working as a Civil Affairs Planner, interacting with host nations and communities that deal with conflict. He began his 24-year career as a Carpenter/Masonry Specialist and eventually made the move to Civil Affairs Planner with the goal of doing something that he felt would help those who are impacted by conflict. This is a fitting career for Jay, since the friend who nominated him for this honor described him as an inspiration to stay strong when times get rough, going on to say that he has an optimistic nature about him. When he isn't working, Jay enjoys spending time behind the grill making food like steaks and burgers for his wife and 2 children and any friends and family who stop over to enjoy a meal with them. As for his all-time favorite grilling experience, Jay would say it was tailgating on the back of his truck, grilling hot dogs while A-10's were flying overhead in Fort Benning, GA. Thank you for your service, Jay!

Charlie Lee's Story

We are proud to announce the Pit Boss Hero of the Month is Army Veteran Charlie Lee! Charlie has lived a life of service, dedicating 30 years to serving in the Army. This includes combat tours in the Vietnam War, where he was a Platoon Sergeant, and the Gulf War, during which he was a First Sergeant. When Charlie concluded his service, he was a Command Sergeant Major. If you ask him what inspired him to join the U.S. military, he says he was following in the footsteps of his family members. Both his grandfather and father served, and his father earned the Silver Star Medal. It just seemed like the natural thing to do, Charlie said. Now that he's retired, Charlie regularly carves out time to spend by the grill, serving up family favorite meals for those he loves. In fact, he says he fires up the grill about once a week in the winter and multiple times a week in the summer. As for what's on the grill, Charlie can typically be found grilling up salmon, ribeyes, or hamburgers for loved ones in Omaha, where he lives with his wife, Mickie. Thank you for your service, Charlie!

SSG Heartley's Story

Pit Boss Nation, join us in honoring our June Hero of the Month: SSG Hartley! This hero was nominated for his selfless attitude both at work and at home. He served as an Army Ranger and re-enlisted 3 years ago, now serving as an SSG in the National Guard. His selfless service reflects why he is a hero in my eyes, said his wife, Jennifer. He has always put others before himself and helped so many. He followed in his brother's footsteps in enlisting in the military. There is a saying that Warriors aren't born; they are made, and this is exactly why he chose to be in the service, Jennifer said. Unfortunately, he lost his brother in action in 2008. When off duty, he can be found behind the grill. Brisket is his go-to, but he plans to start making beef jerky for when he's out in the field. The best part for him is the time spent with family, gathering around the grill. He loves cooking for his friends and family, Jennifer said. He loves watching the kids giggle when he's throwing eggs up in the air or making chocolate chip pancakes and acting like we are all on a cooking show. He says that's the best part of making food is watching the kids have a good time. Those who know him say his attitude and willingness to put others first are what makes him a hero in their eyes. He is a great leader and has proven that throughout his years of service and continues to proudly serve to help others, she said. Thank you for your service, Hartley!

Mario Aldaco's Story

A career in law enforcement has been the dream of our Pit Boss Hero of the Month ever since he was a young boy. We're proud to announce Mario Aldaco of Austin, Texas, as the April Pit Boss Hero of the Month! For as long as he can remember, Mario always told his family he was going to be in law enforcement one day. I always believed in law, he said. But receiving recognition was never the driving force behind that goal. Instead, his focus was on helping victims of violence because he saw many people who experienced that as he was growing up and he wanted to be a voice for them. While this work has always been his dream, it didn't come without sacrifice. Time after time over his 29-year career he has given up time with his own family to uphold his commitment to serve and protect. Mario doesn't claim to be a grill master, but when he does get some free time to get behind the grill, he enjoys serving up tasty food for those he loves. One of his best experiences was trying his hand at grilling a duck. He said it was a great experience because everyone enjoyed the flavor and how it came out, in addition to the memories from those precious moments spent with family and friends. Thank you for your service, Mario!

Alex McKenzie's Story

Our March Pit Boss Hero has dedicated more than 6 years to serving as a police officer in Michigan. Alex McKenzie was nominated for this honor for his selflessness both on and off duty. Becoming a police officer has been a lifelong dream for Alex, who works with the Monroe Police Department. Those who know him say he goes above and beyond his regular duties when he's on the clock to be there for the community he works in. His passion is helping and serving others, and that translates into his role as a road officer with the police department. Alex always aims to learn more and do more, which is why he is also part of the Accident Investigation team, serves as a community officer for his department, and volunteers with the non-profit organization Humanizing the Badge. Alex has also taken classes for Critical Incident Stress Management and has been a part of a Critical Incident Response Team that has been responsible for debriefing with multiple departments after traumatic or critical incidents. When he isn't in uniform, you can find him firing up his Pit Boss to grill or smoke for his friends and family. He took up this hobby to decompress and take his mind off the job. He now shares his love of grilling and smoking through his Instagram account Stuttering Blue BBQ. Alex has the Pit Boss KC Combo, which he says offers the best of both worlds and features a flat top option to cook on. He also loves having the Tailgater so he can take his hobby on the go for family trips. His love of serving others shines through when he cooks, as the best part of any grilling experience for Alex is sharing what he's made with those he loves.

Ben Gainer's Story

Our February Pit Boss Hero is known for his upbeat attitude and dedication to serving his community In fact, if you were to ask those who know police officer Ben Gainer, they'd tell you his positivity is unmatched. Whether he just wrapped up a long nightshift or has spent 10 hours by his smoker, he's always happy and it shows. Becoming a police officer was Ben's dream from a young age and was finally realized in 2018. He has served in this capacity in Pennsylvania for about 4 years. He's described as a man who is dedicated to his job and the community in which he works. Although the job for him can be dangerous at times, he never complains and is always upbeat. When Ben is off duty, he can be found pursuing another one of his passions: grilling and smoking. He has always enjoyed cooking, but he really took it to a new level over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, it's rare to find an off day in which he doesn't have one of his Pit Boss smokers fired up. Ben says he loves cooking for others and seeing their reaction the first time they taste one of his creations. This fall I had my platoon over for a cookout and smoked ribs and a pork butt, Ben said. By the lack of food remaining, I knew it was a success! Thank you for your service, Ben!

Melissa Jenkins's Story

Gathering with loved ones around the grill is the favorite pastime of our January Pit Boss Hero Melissa Jenkins.

Jenkins knew she wanted to join the military her senior year of high school, with the goal of pursuing higher education.

Jenkins graduated asic training on her 18th birthday. Her six years of active duty included stints in Mississippi, Georgia, North Carolina, and Germany and deployment to Kosovo and Iraq.

Her military occupational specialty (MOS) was carpentry and masonry, and she was an E4 Specialist when she left the service because of injury. Jenkins now works as a graphic designer at Dansons.

Going through what I went through makes me a better person, more disciplined," Jenkins said of her military background. She says her fiance is the one who can typically be found behind the grill.

The couple enjoys grilling steaks - complete with the Pit Boss chophouse steak rub - and making pizzas on their Pit Boss PB820 XL.