NORTH CAROLINA -- He spent nearly a decade serving his country. Now, a Marine veteran is the driving force behind an effort to make sure that the children of service members have toys at Christmas.
- Eighteen years ago, Stan Pinkus was compelled to bring some Christmas joy to the children of deployed Marines
- Thousands of toys are collected each year and distributed to some children of all the service branches at posts and bases all over the country
- Back in 2016, the Toys for Lil Troops set a Guinness World Record
Eighteen years ago, Stan Pinkus was compelled to bring some Christmas joy to the children of deployed Marines.
That's how the Toys for Lil Troops program began. Thanks to efforts of not just Stan but the many partners of the United States Veteran Corps that program has grown.
Now, thousands of toys are collected each year and distributed to some children of all the service branches at posts and bases all over the country.
Back in 2016, the Toys for Lil Troops set a Guinness World Record. Over 52,000 pounds, more than 26 tons was gathered in 24 hours.
Pinkus gives all the credit to the many volunteers who help do this every year.
Though he's in his late 70s, Pinkus also still has the fire and grit to get the job done.
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