Marines and police officers with the Provost Marshal’s Office, delivered gifts to Stuart Mesa housing families during the 2nd annual “Cops for Kids” event on Camp Pendleton, Calif., Dec. 19, 2017.

1st Lt. Mark Crum and Cpl. Anthony James organized the event in conjunction with Toys for Tots to give back to the community and build awareness of law enforcement initiatives aboard the installation.

Volunteers shopped for toys at an Escondido toy store with a list compiled by Cpl. Anthony James and Staff Sgt. Edward Underwood, co-founders of the initiative. The list contained the names of 98 children, along with an idea of what each child requested from Santa.

“Pay attention to the age,” said Staff Sgt. Edward Underwood, platoon sergeant for 6th platoon with the Security and Emergency Services Battalion, asking the Marines to consider the special gift for the recipient. “Once you have picked out a few toys, stick a note with the name on the box”.

The Marines then, personally, delivered the toys door-to-door.

“I want to change the image of the police knocking on your door.” said Crum, platoon commander for1st platoon. “I want kids to be happy when they see us.”

The founders of the event: 1st Lt Mark Crum, Gunnery Sgt. Sarah Gregrow, Staff Sgt. Benjamin Grijalva, Staff Sgt. Edward Underwood and Cpl. Anthony James