An emotional and heartwarming video from 1997 has recently gone viral. The classic commercial features a young boy approaching a Marine guard and asking if he is Santa Claus. Initially, the guard appears to ignore the boy, never making eye contact as the child gazes up at him hopefully. Undeterred, the boy pulls out his Christmas list, hoping the guard will grant his holiday wishes. To everyone’s surprise, the guard extends his left hand and accepts the list from the boy.
This touching commercial promotes the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys For Tots program, established in 1947. The program collects new, unwrapped toys throughout October, November, and December each year. These toys are then distributed to less fortunate children, spreading a message of hope and supporting their journey towards responsible, productive, and patriotic citizenship.
The impact of this brief, 30-second video is profound, evoking tears from viewers who have encountered it countless times. It stands out among Christmas commercials, resonating with its powerful message of kindness and generosity. The video’s popularity showcases the profound emotions it stirs within viewers and reaffirms the importance of programs like Toys For Tots in bringing joy to needy children during the holiday season.