‘This is a place of business’: Florida fire station shuts down man’s heartfelt gratitude for 9/11 responders with cold response
He just wanted to give flowers.
Every year, the United States mourns the 9/11 tragedy that took the lives of thousands and injured many. Firefighters were among the first responders who worked tirelessly to rescue survivors, even to the detriment of their own health. One man wanted to express his gratitude for their service, but a visit to a fire station in Florida left him feeling confused when the door was coldly shut in his face.
“Supporting first responders on the 25th [anniversary] of 9/11. Rest in peace to all the lives lost,” Lou (@theyyycallmelou) said in a video shared on TikTok that has since gained 1.7 million views. According to Lou, he visited a fire station in Orange County, Florida, to offer firefighters a bouquet of flowers as a way to show his appreciation for first responders in light of the 25th anniversary of 9/11.
“Today is the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and I really appreciate what you guys do for the community. So I wanted to bring some flowers for the station,” Lou told one of the firefighters. “I wanted to do something special for you because you have done something special for me.”
Florida fire station closes its doors
The first firefighter initially accepted Lou’s bouquet and gratitude until another firefighter arrived and asked why Lou was at the station. Lou introduced himself before the firefighter asked the TikToker if he had a medical emergency or needed any help. Lou explained he was at the station to show “support,” only to seemingly be dismissed by the firefighter, who claimed Lou’s actions were inappropriate.
“Okay, we know what you’re doing,” the firefighter said. “We just don’t- this is a place of business. This is not business-like. So we’d just like you to leave.”
Lou appeared to be speechless, but ultimately apologized and was handed the bouquet back. The firefighter eventually closed all of the station’s garage doors as Lou quietly left.
“Well, I was supposed to give these flowers to these beautiful firefighters. But I guess they didn’t want them,” Lou solemnly said to viewers. “However, on the 25th anniversary of 9/11, I appreciate all firefighters out there who put their lives on the line for people like myself.”
Viewers praised Lou for honoring first responders in a simple yet heartfelt way, and at the same time condemned the response of the firefighters. “This is absolutely terrible. ‘Not business like’? You serve the community. The doors are ALWAYS open for people. I’ve volunteered in many stations and none of them would ever act like this,” one comment read.
You can give firefighters gifts of little monetary value
Other viewers who identified themselves as firefighters spoke up and showed support for Lou’s gesture. “As firemen i appreciate it, that was pretty unprofessional and not a proper response for a kind gesture. never seen something like this or anything close to this,” a commenter wrote. Another added, “Please as a First responder, know this is not at all the norm. Your Amazing and those men need to take the EGO down a few notches.”
Some defended the first firefighter, saying, “The first guy seemed like he actually appreciated it and he looked so sad when he gave the flowers back.” Others theorized that they reacted the way they did because they thought Lou was filming a prank.
Nevertheless, it raises the question of whether or not firefighters are allowed to receive gifts from private citizens. As firefighters are public servants, there are certain items they aren’t allowed to accept, as it can be construed as bribery. Items that have a high value attached to them are generally rejected, as well as cash and cash-equivalent items.
According to Homes for Heroes, citizens can show their appreciation to firefighters by writing them personal letters and signs to express gratitude. Stealing their items is never appropriate when showing appreciation, but stocking their pantry with things like coffee, sports drinks, fruit baskets, or sweets is generally welcomed by firefighters. Of course, accepting these is still at the fire station’s discretion. Whether or not Lou’s gift goes against their policy or if it was simply a matter of circumstances remains unclear.
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