What an incredible experience! We're still buzzing from our time as exhibitors at the Smith & Wesson brand new academy, where we had the amazing opportunity to showcase the Backyard Banger alongside our strategic advisors, the Macklemore Boys.
A Perfect Partnership
When we first partnered with the Macklemore Boys as our strategic advisors, we knew they shared our vision for transforming outdoor experiences. Having them by our side at this prestigious event was the perfect way to demonstrate how the Banger brings people together - whether you're at a training academy, a backyard barbecue, or anywhere adventure calls.
The Ultimate Outdoor Kitchen Meets Elite Training
Smith & Wesson's new academy represents the pinnacle of training excellence, and we were honored to be part of this groundbreaking event. Our portable outdoor kitchen on wheels proved to be the perfect complement to the academy's outdoor environment - providing a full cooking experience wherever it's needed most.
Attendees were amazed by the Banger's versatility and rugged design. From law enforcement professionals to outdoor enthusiasts, everyone could see how this revolutionary kitchen could enhance their training experiences, camping trips, and outdoor gatherings.
What Made This Event Special
The highlight of our experience was meeting Mark, the CEO of Smith & Wesson, who was absolutely amazing and incredibly welcoming. His genuine enthusiasm for innovation and support of veteran-owned businesses like ours made the entire event even more meaningful.
But the real stars of the show were TheMclemoreBoys, who served as MCs for the event and absolutely knocked it out of the park! Not only did they keep the energy high throughout the day, but they also fired up the Banger and fed everyone the most incredible tomahawks and so much more. Watching them work their magic on our portable kitchen was the perfect demonstration of what the Banger can do in the right hands.
We also had the privilege of meeting the incredible team from Independence Fund, a remarkable organization founded in 2007 that's dedicated to supporting our warfighter community in every way possible. They provide comprehensive programs focused on physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual independence for service members, combat veterans, caregivers, and families. From innovative mobility technologies to suicide prevention and family support, they're making a real difference in veterans' lives through advocacy and direct assistance.
We were also impressed to learn about The Verardo Group, led by President Sarah Verardo, whose vision is to help visionaries thrive and turn innovative ideas into reality. Sarah's incredible dedication spans multiple organizations from leading Independence Fund's mission to restore wounded veterans' independence, to founding Save Our Allies (SOA), which conducts precision rescue missions in war-torn areas helping Afghans and Ukrainians. Her unique experience advising Administration officials and Congress members on national policy makes her a truly influential voice for veterans and allies worldwide.
As a veteran-owned company, connecting with fellow supporters of the veteran community was truly special and reminded us why we're so passionate about serving those who've served.
- Meeting industry leaders: CEO Mark's welcoming spirit and support for veteran businesses
- Strategic partnership showcase: TheMclemoreBoys as MCs and master chefs on the Banger
- Community connection: Connecting with Independence Fund and fellow veteran supporters
- Real-world application: Showing how the Banger performs feeding a crowd of professionals
- Innovation on display: Proving that the world's first portable outdoor kitchen on wheels is ready for any challenge
Looking Forward
Events like this remind us why we left our previous careers to pursue this vision. The response from academy participants and fellow exhibitors was incredible - everyone immediately understood the game-changing potential of having a full kitchen that goes wherever you do.
We're grateful to Smith & Wesson for including us in their academy launch and to the Macklemore Boys for their continued partnership and support. This is just the beginning of bringing the Backyard Banger to outdoor enthusiasts everywhere.
Ready to bring the kitchen to your next outdoor adventure?
Visit bybanger.com to see the Banger in action!
Learn more about Independence Fund's incredible work: Independencefund.org
Discover The Verardo Group's mission: theverardogroup.org
Backyard Banger - The world's first portable outdoor kitchen on wheels. Veteran-owned, award-winning, and ready to revolutionize your outdoor experience.