Dyess family honored at 60th World’s Largest BBQ

ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC) – Thousands of people and pounds of food filled the Abilene Convention Center as the community showed its love for military families at the 60th annual World’s Largest Barbecue.

Chairman of Abilene Military Affairs Greg Blair said it was more than slabs of brisket and racks of ribs; it was a celebration of military families.

“It’s just an opportunity for the community to say thank you to our servicemen and women who defend our nation and protect our freedom,” Blair said.

Each year, Abilene Military Affairs honors one military family. This year, the spotlight was on the Perkins family — Zach, Kylie, and their son Beau. But Zach says the real honoree is his wife, Kylie.

“Surprise, honestly, honored a little bit, but I think it all goes to her,” Zach said. “I’ve got to give the hats off to her. She’s the one that holds this whole family together, and it’s really awesome seeing her get recognized for herself, her selflessness, and I think she’s very deserving of this.”

Zach and Kylie met in the Air Force when they were both C-130 Loadmasters.

When it comes to the World’s Largest Barbecue, Chairman Greg Blair says the name isn’t meant to be taken too literally.

“We don’t know if it’s the world’s largest barbecue, but we do know we have the biggest heart for our military, and the Abilene community is known throughout the Air Force for being great supporters of the base,” Blair said. “We’re just happy to have this small token of appreciation for our servicemen and women.”