Suffolk’s finest and the nation’s finest spent some quality time together on Thursday afternoon. Suffolk sheriff’s deputies socialized with veterans residing at Autumn Care of Suffolk over some Little Caesar’s pizza.

“This is our way of thanking them,” said Sgt. Robert Cain.

“As small as this is, we want to let them know we thank and remember them for their service.”

This marked the third year the deputies have hosted a luncheon at the facility, and the veterans love it, according to Tameika Cross, the facility’s activities director.

“It means the world to the veterans,” Cross said. “They look forward to it every year.”

Several of the deputies in attendance were also veterans, which made the experience between both parties much sweeter.

“They enjoy swapping stories and learning from each other’s experiences,” Cross said.

Deputy William Hardy, a 20-year Navy veteran, said the luncheon was a time “to continue the brotherhood.”

“The call of service never stops,” said Cain, who served in the Army for eight years. “That’s why we do what we do here today.”

Also in attendance were Forest Glen Middle School students Kayla Feliciano, J.T. Langston and Kamryn Whitley. The students, who were all members of the school’s Beta Club, also wanted to show their appreciation for the veterans.

The group made a banner that read “We Thank You,” which was covered in signatures and messages from their fellow classmates.

Both Feliciano and Whitley especially had a soft heart for the veterans, because they both have family members who have served.

“It’s just amazing to give back,” Feliciano said.

“It’s really nice to be here,” Whitley said.

The students also went by the rooms of other veterans who could not attend the luncheon for health reasons.

Donald G. Carter, a Navy veteran and Autumn Care of Suffolk resident, was appreciative of the day’s guests.

“I appreciate them not forgetting me and recognizing me,” he said.

“We are supposed to love the brethren just like [Jesus].”