Toys for Tots area coordinator recognized for contribution

In true U.S. Marine Corps form, Maj. David Sosa and Staff Sgt. Shawn Chaufty of the Carson City recruiter office presented Dave Wyble, area coordinator with the Toys for Tots program, an award Wednesday to recognize his volunteer work.

"I do appreciate the award," Wyble said. Wyble is a former Marine - with 20 years of service - and has been Toys for Tots area coordinator for the past eight years.

Wyble helped collect and distribute toys to more than 700 children in families in Carson City, Douglas County and parts of Lyon and Storey counties. More than 400 man hours beginning in October were spent making the holidays special for the children.

Wyble checked in families at a reception desk and looked a bit tired from the hurried excitement, but a smile would eventually find its way to his face when seeing the eyes of a child light up at the anticipation of a new toy.

"I don't do this for recognition," he said. "I do it because I love doing it.

"Once a Marine, always a Marine."

Chaufty said he has kept his eye on Wyble the past couple of years, watching his involvement with the Toys for Tots program. He offered the information to Brig. Gen. J.M. Paxton Jr. at Marine Corps Depot in San Diego. Paxton is general of the Western Recruiting Region, west of the Mississippi.

"This is not done by every office," said Chaufty. "I like to recognize people who help out a lot. I know he and (his wife) Pat do a lot for Toys for Tots.

"We occasionally like to show people our appreciation in one way or another. His dedication to the Marine Corps and patriotism are appreciated not only by us but people in the community."

"This is a general recognition of appreciation," Sosa added. "A selected few receive this award."

n Contact Rhonda Costa-Landers at rcosta-landers@nevadaappeal.com or 881-1223.