WASHINGTON — By job description, police officers have to act quickly.

But on Christmas morning, a family traveling through the area beat a group of officers to the punch.

Six Prince George’s County Police officers met for breakfast at a local IHOP in Oxon Hill.  But when it came time for the bill, there was nothing to pay.

“The waitress told us that a gentleman in the restaurant wished us a merry Christmas and took care of our bill,” says Sgt. Ray Westfall.

He asked the waitress if she could tell them who paid it. The officers then got to thank the family and even take a picture.

“It meant so much to them not just because it was Christmas morning but because of everything that’s going on across the country,” says Julie Parker, a spokesperson for the department.

“This family was looking to let these guys know that they’re supported,” she says.