This weekend, the world was stunned when Elon Musk, the billionaire behind Tesla and SpaceX, traded his high-tech lounge for a kitchen apron and personally cooked for disabled veterans in a warm gesture that drew global attention. With the bold explanation “they get more than just our thanks,” Musk’s unexpected move has sparked an outpouring of admiration and calls for greater support for those who have served.

A meal with importance

On Saturday, June 1, Musk surprised a group of disabled veterans at a community center in Austin, Texas, and rolled up his   sleeves  to prepare a feast of barbecued ribs, potatoes, and homemade apple pie. The event, which was organized in partnership with a local veterans housing organization, saw Musk not only immerse himself in the initiative, but also in his own kitchen. “I wanted to write more than just a check,” Musk said, his hands still dusted with flour. “These heroes have given so much — cooking for them is the least I can do.”

The veterans, many of whom were seriously injured or lost during their service, were visibly moved. One veteran, 45-year-old Rentree native James Carter, said, “I’ve never seen a billion-dollar burger for us. It’s humbling.” Musk chatted with the group for hours, sharing stories and even taking notes on his suggestions for future meals, a moment that was captured in X-rated photos of the virus.

A personal note from a technological titanium

Musk is known for his ambitious projects like Starlink and Neuralink, and has occasionally shown a softer side, supporting causes from disaster relief to education (web sources). However, this latest act is a personal milestone, with Muschus learning it from his mother Maye Maye while growing up in South Africa. “It’s a skill I’ve kept hidden — until now,” he joked, adding that the experience reminded him of victims to support veterans.

The event was funded by a $2 million donation from Musk’s personal foundation, which provided funds to expand vocational training programs for disabled veterans. With a contribution to X’s reading: “Elon Musk cooking for vets? That’s the kind of leadership we need!”

Wave reactions and effects

The gesture ignited a firestorm of backlash. Veteran organizations like the Wounded Warrior Project praised Musk’s efforts, calling them “a powerful explanation of gratitude.” Meanwhile, some critics questioned the optics, with one commenter suggesting, “This is a PR situation,” though veterans in attendance dismissed such claims and Musk emphasized the genuine engagement.

Celebrities joined the chorus, with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson tweeting: “Respect for Elon kicking – the vets deserve this and more.” The move also expanded a challenge under the tech mogul, with rumors that Mark Zuckerberg could follow, although no confirmation has emerged.

What’s next?

As Musk returns to his SpaceX Startpad, the impact remains. The Austin event is just the beginning. Musk is eyeing a nationwide “Cook for Heroes” tour to support disabled veterans in the United States.

Will Musk’s kitchen diplomacy inspire a broader movement, or is this a one-off gesture? One thing is clear: His message — “They get more than just our thanks” — has carried far beyond the dinner table.

What do you think? Can musks change the culinary initiative as we honor veterans? Share your thoughts below!