After a long shift, four Louisiana police officers stopped at their local Outback Steakhouse for dinner. Little did they know, a heartwarming surprise awaited them.

Manager Arline Wood and waitress Zoë Rao recognized the officers as regulars and decided to treat them. When it came time to pay the $67 tab, the officers were shocked to find the meal was on the house, accompanied by a note thanking them for their service and wishing them safety.

The officers were deeply moved by the gesture and left a generous tip in return. However, Wood and Rao didn’t seek attention for their act of kindness. When the story went viral on social media, they were surprised by the sudden publicity.

Despite their discomfort with the attention, Wood and Rao hope their gesture will inspire others to show appreciation for first responders. Their simple act of gratitude serves as a reminder of the sacrifices these individuals make every day to keep communities safe.

In a world where police officers sometimes face disrespect, this story highlights the importance of acknowledging and thanking those who risk their lives to protect others. It’s acts of kindness like these that remind first responders why they do what they do and show them they are truly appreciated.