CITRUS HEIGHTS, CA (MPG) - The American Legion Post 637 is inviting residents to its upcoming Battle of the Bands and BBQ’s fundraiser on Sept. 14.

The Battle of the Bands & BBQ is a family-friendly event at the Rusch House in Rusch Park, featuring four bands and up to eight barbecue pitmasters competing for your vote of who is the best. One hundred percent of the proceeds will provide much-needed assistance to the veterans in our community.

This year, the Battle of the Bands will be Moonshine & Honey, Mojo Jones', The Rubber Band and Jared Blum Band.

The Sept. 14 event also includes a beer garden, bounce house and kids’ craft with Home Depot.

All is included in the price of $30. Children aged 12 and under are free with paid adult admission.

The gate will open at 10:30 a.m. and the event starts at 11 a.m. Sept. 14.

A Ghost Soldier Ceremony at 11:15 a.m. will honor Marine Sgt. Nicole L. Gee, who was killed in the line of duty in Afghanistan in August 2021.

American Legion Post 637 was chartered on Nov. 3, 1995, with the primary mission to help veterans in need.

Many Citrus Heights veterans unfortunately are struggling to cope with rising rents, groceries, utility bills and more.

American Legion Post 637 helps the veterans through a “Vets Helping Vets Fund,” which is primarily funded by the fifth annual Battle of the Bands & BBQ. This fundraiser was created by former Citrus Heights Mayor and current Sacramento County Supervisor Sue Frost.