OCEAN CITY, Md. - First responders from Berlin and Ocean City received turkeys on Monday courtesy of several local businesses. The big birds were the communities way of saying 'thank you' for the work first responders do all year long. 

The Ocean City Fire Department was just one stop on the goodwill tour, and it proved to be a memorable day for first responders in both Ocean City and Berlin. Dozens, and in some cases hundreds, of free turkeys were distributed, bringing a sense of gratitude to those who dedicate their lives to ensuring the safety of others.

"It's very refreshing," said Richard Bowers, Ocean City's fire chief. 

Ashley Miller from the Ocean City Police Department expressed her gratitude. 

"Our community came through, showed support for us, and we're very thankful for it," said Miller. 

Miller added that with such volatile schedules, free turkeys can go a long way. 

"Will I have a turkey, you know, if I have to celebrate it on a Tuesday or I celebrate it on Sunday because of our work schedule?" said Miller. "It really takes that burden off of our officers." 

David Fitzgerald of the Berlin Fire Department also tipped his cap to the effort.

"We certainly appreciate recognizing the first responders," said Fitzgerald. 

A total of 250 turkeys were handed out on Monday morning. 150 went to the Ocean City Police Department and 50 to the Ocean City Fire Department.

Bowers highlighted the significance of the gesture, especially for those whose first priority on Thanksgiving is the safety of others.

"The men and women are here, both career and volunteer, providing service because a 911 call comes in at any time, any day," said Bowers.

In Berlin, both the Fire Company and Police Department each received 25 turkeys.

Chief Downing said it's great to see the community come together for these endeavors. 

"These ladies and gentlemen took their time out during the busy holiday season, stopped whatever they were doing, and went ahead to drop off a little bit of love," said Downing. 

The initiative was made possible by the generosity of five businesses: Ropewalk, Alley Oops, Saltwater 75, Powerhouse Title Group and Movement Mortgage. The effort was coordinated by Mooney and Fitzgerald Realtors, The Law Offices of James A. List, the Ocean City Chamber of Commerce and the Ocean City Hotel Motel Restaurant Association. 

Sean O'Conor, President and Owner of O'Conor, Mooney and Fitzgerald Realtors said after expanding to Berlin from Ocean City, they would love to keep the ball rolling. 

"We hope to expand it next year, we don't know exactly how just yet but I think with the sponsors we have we can continue to grow," said O'Conor.  

As Thanksgiving approaches, Bowers took a moment to offer a friendly reminder.

"Fry your turkey, not your house," said Chief Bowers.

250 turkeys given out, symbolizing a heartfelt thank you to those who tirelessly serve our communities around the clock.