Good food and fellowship were offered to all of those in Butler County who protect, serve and save lives on Saturday afternoon.

Johnson Funeral Home in Georgiana was the site of the 2nd annual First Responders Day.

“We just wanted to be able to say thank you to all these people who serve as first responders in our county and who put their own lives at risk to save others,” said Johnson Funeral Home manager Mike Middleton.

“We sent out invitations to everyone who serves—our city and town police departments, EMS, the sheriff’s department, fire fighters and volunteer fire departments. We appreciate them all.”

Middleton said date of the event was consciously chosen as one close to September 11 and the anniversary of the terrorist attacks on the Twin Towers in New York City.

“Nowadays, especially for our police officers, they never know when a routine traffic stop may end up being a fight for their lives. They deserve our respect and our gratitude.”

Those who attended got to enjoy freshly grilled burgers, hot dogs and sausages along with baked beans, coleslaw and red velvet cake for dessert, plus a chance to relax and catch up with their fellow first responders.