NORFOLK, Va. (WVEC) -- Last weekend, you may have noticed a strange looking vehicle in the parking lot of the Target on Military Highway in Norfolk -- a tough, rugged Bearcat used by military crews and SWAT teams.
What was inside was even stranger: Princess Mommy, Jenga, Hot Wheels and stacks of bags filled with other popular toys donated by shoppers and stuffed inside the Norfolk Police Department's Bearcat so Marines can give them to needy families for Christmas through their Toys for Tots program.
"It's good to see these families be able to give their children a good Christmas and help the less fortunate throughout the season," said U.S. Marine Sgt. Chris Heater.
Norfolk Police officer Jason Casel pointed to the back of the Bearcat when asked if the Marines and the Norfolk PD make a good team.
"Absolutely," he said. "Look at the pile of presents we have here."
This year's effort collected close to 400 toys for Toys for Tots, but that wasn't the only thing that made the officers and Marines feel good. So did the number of people who just came by to say thank you and shake hands as a sign of appreciation for serving the community in this manner.
"Policemen, firemen, Marines, we all wear multiple hats," said officer R.L. Miller. "I do this because I believe. I'm a citizen of Norfolk and this city's important to me."
