Wal-Mart makes donation to Marines

Dean Wyatt, chaplain of the Broad River Leathernecks, the local detachment of the Marine Corps League, is handed a check from Gaffney Wal-Mart community grant coordinator Jackie Childers. The organization will use the money to provide help to the families of Marines and others in the community. The local detachment of the Marine Corps League is the latest recipient of Wal- Mart's good will, receiving a $1,000 community grant Thursday from the department store giant.

"We are very fortunate in being given this check," detachment chaplain Dean Wyatt said. "It gives us more opportunities to help others."

"It is always fun to give money away," Gaffney Wal- Mart community grant coordinator Jackie Childers said. "We enjoy helping other people."

The detachment, also known as the Broad River Leathernecks, was established locally in 2005. Nearly 60 former Marines are part of the local branch of the organization.

The organization helps Marines wounded in combat by providing a number of services to them and their families.

"It is a bond that we all have... once a Marine, always a Marine," Wyatt said. "We take joy in helping each other as we are all part of a family."

The "Leathernecks" are a common part of a community, providing services at military funerals as well as a number of parades during the year. But Wyatt said the Marines' "Toys for Tots" campaign is the one that gives him the most joy.

"It is amazing to see the eyes of kids when they get their gifts," Wyatt said. "While we are delivering them gifts, we believe we are getting one by seeing the smiles and joy on their faces."