MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- While the Marines are well known around the world as America's "first to fight," some children around the community remember the Marines for an altogether different reason.
"They know when the Marines come into the orphanages, they're going to get a toy, and that's exciting for them," said Lavonne Lessard, Single Marine Program assistant manager. "Our Marines are their Santa Claus."
The Single Marine Program coordinates the Toys for Tots program onboard the Station, which distributes toys to children in several local orphanages. But it's the individual Marines and Sailors of Iwakuni who do the work of the program.
"The Toys for Tots program has always been run by the Marine Corps," said Lessard. "We just assist the Marine Corps. The real heroes are the Marines and Sailors who volunteer to stand outside in the cold in their uniforms and collect the toys."
While the Marines may work long hours, many of them find it more than worth their while.
"It's like bringing a piece of home to Japan for a lot of the Marines," said Lessard. "A lot of the Marines have younger siblings that they can't be with, and this is a way for them to bring joy to the lives of children. I don't know who gets more excited, the kids or the Marines."
For some of the Marines involved, Toys for Tots carries a very special meaning.
"These toys are given to children that don't have much for Christmas," said Pfc. Jimmy Lamboy, Provost Marshal's Office military policeman. "My father never put up a Christmas tree, or gave out Christmas gifts, so I'm trying to ensure that these youngsters get a chance to experience what I didn't."
The effort also helps Marines show their devotion and pride.
"Being here shows we care," said Lamboy. "It's a wonderful feeling making other people happy."
Collecting toys gives the children something they don't normally have the chance to experience.
"The kids get their needs provided by the state, but toys are a luxury," said Lessard. "It provides them a bright spot in a sometimes-gloomy world."
While the program has collected many toys, it still needs more donations and volunteers to be able to serve all the orphanages in the area.
For more information on Iwakuni's Toys for Tots program, contact Lessard at 253-3585.
"Please don't forget about Toys for Tots this holiday season," said Lessard. "This might be the only joy some of these kids get around this time of year."