Guy Fieri serves meals to first responders and veterans at Naples park

NAPLES, Fla. (WINK)—Celebrity chef Guy Fieri visited Baker Park to honor first responders and veterans.

Hundreds of first responders and veterans gathered at the park to be recognized for their service. WINK News was there as Fieri served meals to those who serve the community. 

"All these people have been impacted by these hurricanes that have happened all throughout Florida. And this is our opportunity when it's not a disaster, time to just roll in and say thank you, Fieri said. 

For Fieri, the mission is personal. His father was a submariner during Vietnam, and many of his friends are first responders, active military, and veterans.

He now takes his foundation across the country. The appreciation is felt by people in uniform.

For many, the day was also a moment to reflect. Sam Cadreau, a retired firefighter with the City of Naples Fire Department, spoke about the brotherhood among firefighters while looking back on 9/11.

"Firefighters are brothers," Cadreau said. "No matter where they go, what department they work for, we're all brothers, and we lost 343, that's why his truck is 343, it's in their honor."

For those who have spent decades answering the call on the front lines, the event was meaningful. Army veteran and first responder John Plummer described the experience as humbling.

"We've had a lot of folks express their gratitude towards us in many different ways, and having something like this for everybody here is just a wonderful surprise, and it's very appreciated," Plummer said.

A simple meal served up something much bigger than food.