Little Noah, a 9-year-old boy, was enjoying breakfast at Denny’s with his mom when he noticed a police officer sitting alone at a nearby table. Instantly, Noah felt a surge of anxiety. He knew he wanted to do something to express his gratitude, but he wasn’t quite sure what to do.
Noah quickly informed his mother about the presence of the police officer and began formulating a plan. As a child, Noah had always dreamt of becoming a police officer, so he mustered up the courage to ask his mother for permission to approach Officer Eddie Benitez and say hello.
With his mother’s approval, Noah tentatively walked towards Officer Eddie, but his anxiety got the best of him and he couldn’t utter a word. After a few minutes of contemplation, Noah decided to come up with a new strategy that was sure to make the officer’s face light up.
Noah wanted to treat Eddie to breakfast using the money he had saved from his birthday. His mother, Amanda, signaled the waitress and shared their plan. As they paid for Eddie’s meal, Noah left a heartwarming note on the receipt.
With the receipt and his heart full of excitement, Noah approached Officer Eddie. Eddie was a bit perplexed as to why the young boy was approaching him with the receipt, but he soon realized what was happening. As Eddie read the note, he couldn’t help but jump out of his chair and gladly pose for a photo with his newfound fan.
The note on the receipt, written by Noah, said: “I want to be you when I grow up. Thank you for your service, Noah.” This simple act of kindness deeply touched Eddie’s heart, and he has carried that note with him every day since.
When asked about the encounter, Eddie shared, “It meant everything. It reminded me why I wake up every morning, put on this uniform, and do what I do. It reminds me to keep being a good example for all the young ones out there.”
Eddie’s employer, the Lakeland Police Department, was so moved by this touching story that they posted a picture of Noah and Eddie on their Facebook page. This heartwarming gesture not only made Noah even more determined to fulfill his dream of becoming a police officer, but it also reminded everyone of the incredible work our police force does every day.
If this story warmed your heart, don’t hesitate to click that “Like” button to show your support for our dedicated police force!
