A 1997 video featuring a Marine guard and a hopeful child went viral, touching the hearts of many. In the video, the guard appears to ignore the boy’s question about Santa, but when the child hands him his Christmas list, the guard takes it with his left hand. The seemingly small gesture sparked widespread attention.
The video was part of a campaign promoting the Marine Corps Reserve’s Toys For Tots initiative, which collects gifts for children in need. The powerful, 30-second commercial stands out among the usual holiday ads, conveying a deeper message of kindness and generosity.
In the ad, the guard’s simple act of taking the child’s list becomes a symbol of the spirit of giving, reminding viewers of the importance of helping others during the holidays. It emphasizes the idea that even small actions can make a big impact, and how kindness can help spread joy to those who might otherwise go without. The ad’s emotional impact reminds us of the value of supporting initiatives that bring happiness to children in need.
