Krispy Kreme offered free doughnuts and coffee to first responders across its US stores on Friday, marking the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks with a nationwide tribute to firefighters, police officers and paramedics.

Uniformed first responders and those presenting valid service identification could claim the offer at participating locations. Other retailers joined the commemorations, with Dunkin' and several regional coffee chains extending free or discounted drinks to service members. Restaurants near the World Trade Center site in Lower Manhattan hosted firefighters from the FDNY.

The 25th anniversary drew larger corporate participation than usual, with brands tying promotions to charitable donations for the Tunnel to Towers Foundation. The foundation, which supports families of fallen first responders and military members, said partner companies had pledged additional contributions to coincide with the milestone.

Consumer advocates noted the anniversary has become a fixture of the corporate calendar, blending remembrance with marketing. Solemn ceremonies at Ground Zero, the Pentagon and Shanksville, Pennsylvania anchored the day's national observance, with the commercial tributes framed by brands as acts of gratitude toward emergency workers 25 years on.