Committee begins planning 44th World’s Largest Barbecue Published Feb. 3, 2009 By Tech. Sgt. A.C. Eggman 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- The Abilene Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee has begun planning the 44th annual Armed Forces Banquet. The banquet, commonly known as the "World's Largest Barbecue," will be at the Abilene Civic Center and is currently scheduled for the third Saturday of April. Volunteers will serve two meals which are free and open only to those currently serving in the military and their families. Spouses of deployed military members are also welcome, as are members of the National Guard, Reserves, and Department of Defense civilian employees. Tickets for the barbecue will be available from unit first sergeants, but are not required for the event. The free tickets are used merely to help advertise the dinner and as a personal reminder. Military identification cards, however, are required and will be checked at the door. The banquet is one of the many events, the Military Affairs Committee holds to show its appreciation to military members and their families for being part of the Abilene community and for serving their country. In addition to honoring all Dyess Airmen and their families each year with the banquet, the MAC recognizes one or two individual families with the Dyess Family of the Year Award. The award recognizes military families who have contributed to the military and the local community through volunteer service and community involvement. The award will be presented at the barbecue. The menu for this year's event will include beef, sausage, ranch-style beans, iced tea, cookies, and other barbecue favorites. Look for updates and more details in upcoming weeks.