00:00Thank you, General Anderson. It's wonderful to join everyone here at Marine Corps Base Quantico.
00:09You might be wondering why Santa asked me to bring him here today.
00:15Well, this wonderful adventure is filled with Christmas sparkle and lots of love.
00:23Santa's reindeer, Rudolph, Dasher, Comet, all of them, they are resting in the North Pole.
00:33They need to save all of their energy for their great flight around the world on Christmas Eve.
00:42Santa told me they are snuggled beneath warm fluffy blankets,
00:48sipping candy cane cocoa, feeling the joy and love that will soon be shared with amazing children everywhere.
01:01So, with his sleigh parked safely with his reindeer, Santa climbed aboard my osprey and couldn't stop smiling.
01:12I watched him gazing out of the window, grinning at all of the wonderful American families below.
01:20Santa told me that the osprey floated through the sky like a giant snowflake.
01:27But it is way faster than a sleigh could ever fly.
01:33Santa, where are you, Santa? Thank you for joining me.
01:39Today, we are here for one of the most beloved traditions of the holiday season.
01:47Toys for Tots, led by United States Marine Corps Reserve.
01:53For more than 75 years, Marines and volunteers across America collect and deliver new toys to children who need a little extra joy during Christmas.
02:06All wrapped with love and great care.
02:11To everyone here at Quantico and all those who support the Toys for Tots Foundation, thank you.
02:20This includes the Toy Association's generous support.
02:25I'm grateful for your partnership and dedication to promoting fun and creativity.
02:32You help bring the delight of Christmas morning to millions of children.
02:37And you remind us all that American tradition, kindness and love remain among our most powerful.
02:48To the families of military personnel, you are the heart of today's celebration.
02:55Your strength in the face of adversity is inspirational.
03:01Some of the children here today have a parent stationed away from home right now.
03:07I know this can be difficult.
03:09On behalf of our nation, thank you.
03:14And thank you to the parents and guardians who are here today.
03:19Your support and resilience empower our Marines to serve with honor and distinction.
03:26Whether near or far, you eliminate every occasion enriching everyone's life.
03:34This Christmas season, you, your friends and your families should wish for the ultimate gift, love.
03:44After all, love travels further than Santa's sleigh and American ospreys.
03:52Thank you and Merry Christmas and Happy and Healthy New Year.
04:17Yay.
04:19Bye.
04:22Great.
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