First Responder Appreciation Day Celebrates Everyday Heroes
PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- Wednesday marked the inaugural First Responder Appreciation Day -- where community groups said thank you to police, firefighters and medics across Philadelphia. Dozens of businesses participated in the grassroots effort.
First Responder Appreciation Day included free Phillies tickets, barbecue, donuts, sandwiches and refreshments at a half-dozen locations across Philadelphia.
Councilman David Oh organized this first annual event, which honored police, firefighters and paramedic units. He says with national focus on police reforms, recent protests and the shooting in Dallas, our servicemen and women needed a boost.
"It's long overdue," Oh said. "I think that it's important that they know we appreciate them and the good job that they do."
"A lot of times now people hate you just for what you do," said Philadelphia Police Sergeant Denise Duchelli.
She enjoyed a free brisket sandwich at Mission Barbecue on Roosevelt Boulevard in Northeast Philadelphia.
"Not much in life is free," Duchelli said. "It was very appreciated, very appreciated."
More than 120 restaurants provided food for the day's events.