Firefighters honored at community appreciation event

FORT MYERS, Fla. (WINK) — A Southwest Florida beverage company turned International Firefighters' Day into a community appreciation event.

Suncoast Beverage Sales partnered with Phorm Energy to host a recognition event at their Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard facility in Fort Myers. Firefighters from across the area were invited for a brief ceremony where the company handed out cases of energy drinks to show support for local crews.

"You guys are the ones that are engaging, taking care of the community and making sure that we're protected," said Tim Mitchell, chief executive officer of Suncoast Beverage Sales.

Chief Tracy McMillion of the Fort Myers Fire Department thanked the company for recognizing the sacrifices firefighters make.

"You all are truly heroes," McMillion said. "You all definitely make a difference in the day-to-day lives of our community."

The event featured a ladder truck display with a large American flag and additional fire vehicles. Local media and community leaders attended to help celebrate the contributions of firefighters.

Each participating station received one case of Screamin' Freedom Phorm Energy and one case of Honor, Educate & Unite Phorm Energy. About 130 fire stations across Southwest Florida will receive care packages as part of the effort.

Mitchell emphasized that firefighters are ready to protect the community even before most people wake up. He noted that while people run away from danger, firefighters engage and take care of the community.