ARLINGTON, Va. — A toast to our region's hardworking first responders has us feeling uplifted. It can be a tough and thankless job. That's where the Washington Capitals stepped — or skated — in.
The team invited 100 first responders and their families to a practice Tuesday to show appreciation. The invitees were excited to get out on the ice with the pros. Firefighters, EMS crews and police officers traded their uniforms for Caps gear.
"It was awesome," said Tiny Willey with the Takoma Park Volunteer Fire Department. "I was worried I was going to fall because I'm very clumsy, but it was fine."
Willey said getting an invitation to come to the practice was special.
"It means the world," she said.
Caps fan and Arlington County Police Detective Tim Parsons said the experience was one he won't soon forget.
"It was really a neat experience to get that close to Capitals players — people we watch all the time on TV," he said.
Capitals stars TJ Oshie and Nick Dowd said the night was special for them too.
"We're all so thankful for the sacrificed and work they do to keep us safe," Oshie said.
"It's pretty special to have them come in and see our day-to-day. Get to shake their hand and say thank you from us, and get some pictures," Dowd said.
The Capitals are also hosting first responders next Tuesday, Jan. 16, for First Responders Appreciation Night when the Caps face off against the Anaheim Ducks. $5 from every ticket sold will be donated to the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation.
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