The Capital Yacht Club served free lunch to scores of D.C. police officers, firefighters and EMS workers on Sunday, Oct. 25, marking the 34th year the club has hosted its annual first-responder picnic at the Wharf in Southwest D.C.
Club members grilled hot dogs and hamburgers while Wharf restaurants supplied the sides. Kirwan's, Pink Tiger, Lupo Marino, Hank's Oyster Bar, Bartaco and City Cruises were among the eateries that donated salads, drinks and desserts, as WTOP News first reported.
"They take care of us every day," Guy Shields, the club's commodore and event organizer, told WTOP. "And this is just a little way that we can show that we appreciate them."
More than 15 club members volunteered to prepare and serve food. Some first responders picked up boxed meals to bring back to their stations for colleagues on duty.
Every first responder in the city was invited, including National Guard members patrolling the Wharf.
D.C. Deputy Fire Chief Thomas Chenworth told WTOP his personnel value the long-running partnership with the maritime community and wanted to thank club members for years of support.
Kathy Ellingsworth, a longtime club member and volunteer, told WTOP she was grateful to serve the people who protect the community.
Shields told WTOP he believes the recognition matters to first responders who face demanding work every day.
