MARINE COPRS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- More than 100 motorcycles hit the air station’s streets here Sunday for the 8th annual Toys for Tots Motorcycle Rally.
The rally was coordinated by the Iwakuni Motorcycle Club and Single Marine Program to kick off the Marine Corps’ Toys for Tots campaign.
The program collects new, unwrapped toys each year and distributes the gifts to needy children in the community.
So far, the program has collected more than 2,000 toys to donate to less fortunate children.
“We just want to get enough gifts to support the underprivileged, needy children aboard the station and also in the local community and orphanages,” said Alex Perkins, assistant SMP manager.
The musical band XOP provided live entertainment for the event, while participating riders enjoyed food, including barbecue, hot dogs, hamburgers, and sodas and games.
To attend the event, participants donated at least one toy to the campaign, but Mike Gingles, president of the Iwakuni Motorcycle Club, suggested everyone give whatever he could to help the SMP pay for wrapping paper as well.
Both Japanese and American riders generously poured out their pockets into the cardboard box set out in front of the crowd.
Event attendees placed their gifts in a large donation box wrapped in festive, red and green wrapping paper, flanked by three Marines in dress blue uniforms.
Japanese and American bikers decked out in leather jackets and vests, studs and spikes, chaps, distressed denim, bandanas and riding boots straddled their motorcycles and hit the road for a mass “thunder run” around the perimeter of the station.
“Other than a few rides around the block, this was my daughter’s first ride in a big event like this,” said Staff Sgt. Mario Cardenas, a military police officer and participant. “She loved it.”
The motorcycle club and SMP coordinate charitable events throughout the year to support the local community.
“To be part of this kind of event is an immense honor,” said Perkins. “We’re helping people for the holidays, and we’re giving to the children, our future.”
The rally brings Japanese and American bikers together while raising funds for those in need.
“Events like these are important because it builds a friendship between the communities,” said Gingles. Contributions are still highly encouraged.
Donations can be dropped off in front of the Marine Corps Exchange 6 – 8 p.m. weekdays and 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. weekends until Dec. 20.