Military helicopter crash claims lives of four service members including Andrew Kraus
- Four U.S. service members, including Andrew Kraus, died in a helicopter crash during flight training on September 17, 2025.
- The helicopter was conducting a routine training flight when it crashed near Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state.
- The loss has impacted not only the military community but also the Maryland community, as Kraus was the son of a prominent local business founder.
On September 17, 2025, a tragic helicopter crash near Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington state resulted in the deaths of four U.S. service members. Among the deceased was Chief Warrant Officer Andrew Kraus, the son of Bill Kraus, a co-founder of Mission BBQ, which is renowned for supporting military and first responders. The Army confirmed that the crash occurred during routine flight training exercises at approximately 9 p.m. that Wednesday evening. The soldiers involved were part of the elite 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, commonly known as the Night Stalkers. Established to conduct nighttime missions, the regiment is recognized for its proficiency in operations under low visibility conditions, allowing them to execute the most complex missions globally. Andrew Kraus, 39, who joined the Army in 2017, had previously participated in numerous training missions and deployments supporting contingency response operations. His commitment to military service reflects the values promoted by Mission BBQ, which originated in Maryland shortly after the September 11, 2001, attacks. Maryland Governor Wes Moore expressed his heartbreak over the loss, stating, "Dawn and I are heartbroken to hear that Andrew Kraus, the son of Mission BBQ co-founder Bill Kraus, died alongside three other service members during a flight training." Moore’s comments highlight the sorrow shared by the Maryland community, which remembers both Kraus’ military contributions and his familial ties to Mission BBQ. The restaurant chain, founded in 2011, has grown to 21 locations across Maryland and emphasizes giving back to those who serve in the military and as first responders. The crash not only represents a significant loss for the families of the service members but also underscores the sacrifices made by those in military service. The tragedy serves as a painful reminder of the risks associated with military training operations and the unpredictable nature of flying a helicopter, especially during nighttime exercises, where the challenges and dangers are exponentially increased. As investigations into the crash continue, the pain and mourning felt by the families, friends, and fellow service members of those lost will resonate deeply within the community and beyond.