5 December 2008
U.S. Marines and CP Celebrate 10 Years of Toys for Tots Train Deliveries
Binghamton New York USA - The Toys for Tots Train by
Canadian Pacific and the Marines of Fox Co 2d Battalion, 25th Marine Corps, in New York State will once again be delivering toys to
needy children in New York State this December 6th and 7th weekend. For the 10th year this train of passenger cars, filled with toys,
pulled by a decorated locomotive will leave from Binghamton New York and head to Albany, Saratoga Springs, and Plattsburg, making 12
stops through 17 counties.
In the first nine years, more than 100,000 toys have been distributed to less fortunate children by train. In 2008, representatives
from 50 social service agencies and hundreds of families will pick up toys and at all stops Santa, his elves, and Marines dressed in
their uniforms will be present. It's estimated over 40,000 children will benefit from the toys distributed.
"All our employees in New York State are proud to be operating this special train and celebrating 10 years with the Toys for Tots
program," said John Aussant, Canadian Pacific Service Area Manager. "We're also very honored work alongside the dedicated
United States Marines currently stationed in New York State who, along with serving our country, are taking time to make a child's
holiday season a lot merrier."
"The U.S. Marine Corps Reserve is proud to partner with Canadian Pacific and Friehoffers on this worthwhile endeavor as the Toys
for Tots Train is one of the biggest components of our yearly program" Marine Staff Sgt. Mary Castilla, of the Fox Co 2d
Battalion, 25th Marine Corps. "This train will help us with our goal of instilling hope and, will undoubtedly brighten the
holiday season for the children and families as they will know support is there for them during tough times."
On Sunday, the Train will be hosting LtGen. Pete Osman, USMC (ret), president and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. LtGen
Osman will be present at a special dedication ceremony on Sunday in Saratoga Springs in the memory of fallen Marine Sgt. Shawn
Martin.
On Saturday, 6 Dec 2008, the specially-decorated train will be making stops in Binghamton, Bainbridge,
Oneonta, Cobleskill, and Delanson. On Sunday, 7 Dec 2008, it will be spreading its cheer in Albany, Mechanicville,
Saratoga Springs, Whitehall, Port Henry, Port Kent, and Plattsburgh.
About the 2nd Battalion, 25th U.S. Marines
The 25th Marine Regiment is a command that stretches across most of the Northeastern United States. Regimental headquarters is located
in Worcester, Massachusetts, and its battalions are located throughout the region. First Battalion is located at Camp Edwards,
Massachusetts; Second Battalion is headquartered in Garden City, New York; and Third Battalion in Brookpark, Ohio.
The 2nd Battalion, 25th Marines also stretches across a vast area. Headquarters and Service Company and Weapons Company are situated
in Garden City, New York; Echo Company is located in Harrisburg, Pa; Fox Company is located in Albany, NY; Golf Company is located in
Dover, New Jersey.
The Marines of the 25th Marine Regiment have distinguished themselves since their activation on 1 May 1943. The 25th
fought in the battles of Saipan, Tinian, Kwajalein Atoll, and Iwo Jima. In 1945 the Regiment was deactivated, World War II had ended.
On 1 Jul 1962 the 25th was reactivated as a Marine Corps Reserve Unit. This proud Regiment has continued to train in
"every clime and place" for its important role in the defense of the United States of America.
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