Thomas Hill Jewelers in Hinesville recently hosted a First Responder Appreciation Day.

The store served lunch for all EMS, police, deputies, firefighters and other first responders, as well as offered discounts and gave away numerous prizes, including a Reactor watch.

"After being in an accident, we personally realized just how impactful the first responders are," shop owner Tom Hill said.

His wife Chrissie Hill, who is also co-owner, explained their appreciation:

"They made us as comfortable as possible until further help arrived to the scene. We wanted to say thank you personally to the men and women who daily risk their own lives to protect and serve ours as well as the communities that we live in and built our business in. These men and women put their all into their careers never knowing when they kiss their children, spouse and family goodbye in the morning to leave for their shift, if they will have to put in longer than required hours or even make it home safety at all in serving our community."

Hinesville Fire Department Capt. Robert Kitchings said, "I have worked in public safety for 20 years. In this time, I have yet to come across one person that does this job just to have someone say thank you. That being said, it means a great deal to each of us when we are recognized for the things that we do. For Thomas Hill to take the time to provide us with a meal and a warm smile really means a lot. It may have seemed like a small gesture to you, but to us, it means so much more. Typically, our experiences with the public are during tragic and stressful times. People do not always get to see us for who we really are. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to relax and fellowship with the people that we work for."