For many, the smell of woodsmoke and slow-cooked brisket is a sign of a weekend celebration. For Larry Musch, those same aromas represent something much deeper: hope, healing, and a call to service.
Larry’s journey with Operation BBQ Relief (OBR) didn’t start in a disaster zone, but in the world of competitive barbecue. While attending contests as a cook and judge, he noticed OBR piggy banks on the tables. Intrigued by the organization’s mission to feed those in need, Larry decided to dig deeper. When a few unexpected days off work aligned with a desire to give back, he knew exactly where to turn.
Larry’s first deployment took him to Mayfield, Kentucky, in December 2021, following the devastating Western Kentucky tornado outbreak. It was an experience that changed his perspective forever.
“When I had the privilege to hand someone who lost so much a hot meal and see the tears of gratitude, I knew this is what I wanted to be more involved in when I retired,” Larry said.
Since that first trip to Mayfield, Larry has become a seasoned veteran of the OBR team. Over the last 18 months, his volunteer work has taken him across the country, from the coast of California to the shores of Florida. Yet, despite the thousands of miles traveled, his most impactful memory occurred just 15 miles from his front door.
During a recent deployment, Larry had the unique opportunity to serve his own neighbors in Lake Village, Indiana.
“We never know where we will be needed next,” Larry said. “But when it hits at home, I am glad OBR is there to help. It was a great feeling knowing we could help in my own community.”
For Larry, the beauty of OBR lies in its inclusivity and the immediate sense of belonging. He is quick to dispel the myth that you need to be a pitmaster to make a difference.
“You do not have to be a ‘BBQ guy,’” he said. “There are jobs for any skill level on the team. When you join as a volunteer, you will leave as family!”
Larry’s story is a testament to the power of a hot meal and a kind heart. He joined OBR looking for a way to serve others, but he found something much larger: a nationwide family and a profound sense of purpose. As he puts it, the reward of seeing a neighbor’s face light up over a tray of food far outweighs the hard work put in behind the smoker.
Whether he is across the country or in his own backyard, Larry Musch embodies the spirit of OBR. We are proud to have him on our team!
Interested in joining Larry and the rest of the OBR family? Download our “OBR Volunteers” smartphone app or visit our volunteer page to find out how you can use your skills to help those in need.
