In the 1997 video, a youngster approaches a Marine guard and asks whether he is Santa Claus. As the youngster stares up at him, the guard avoids him, never establishing eye contact with him. The youngster then takes out his Christmas list, hoping the guard will bring him presents. The guard, surprisingly, reaches out his left hand and snatches the list from the youngster.
The heartfelt commercial was created to promote the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys For Tots program.
The initiative started in 1947 and collects “new, unopened presents during the months of October, November, and December each year” to donate to underprivileged kids.
The purpose is to provide a message of optimism to underprivileged youth that will help them become responsible, industrious, and patriotic citizens.
One viewer remarked, “One of the few Christmas advertisements I genuinely like.”
“This movie just lasts 30 seconds, but I’ve seen it multiple times and it makes me weep every time,” said another.