Mouthwatering BBQ competition supports veterans in receiving their forever companion

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- On Sunday, Sept. 1, the Southridge Mall's parking lot was transformed into a meat lovers' paradise. As barbeque amateurs fired up the grill for a sizzling showdown all for a good cause.

"We have teams cooking sausage and ribs," said Greg Fischer, Co-Founder of Burn Pit BBQ.

Hundreds of people gathered for the Fourth Annual Burn Pit BBQ Backyard Bash. Every year, Burn Pit BBQ picks a different veteran organization to support, this year the proceeds went to "Service and Dogs" better known as Sierra Delta.

"They help provide service dog training for service members and first responders," Fischer explained.

Lee Otto is a Regional Ambassador for Sierra Delta and has first-hand experience in how the program can change a veteran's life.

"It gave me a mission and a purpose again and that's what we are trying to help other veterans with...provide a community where they can come and have support," said Otto.

Fischer says there's no better feeling than having the community's help.

"The issues and things surrounding veterans continue today. I'm reminded this week sadly because a marine I served with took his own life this week, so its been great to see the community come together especially around barbeque and food because who doesn't love that," said Fischer.

The BBQ champion received the coveted Burn Pit BBQ belt and community awards were also handed out to the fan-favorites.

If you want to volunteer or support Sierra Delta, click here.