Goodyear, U.S. Marines Toys for Tots Event Huge Success

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Dec 13, 2011, 04:02 ET

SUFFIELD, Ohio, Dec. 13, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company (NYSE: GT) and the United States Marine Corps Reserve successfully conducted their second annual joint maneuver to benefit the Toys for Tots Foundation at the blimp base in Suffield, Ohio, December 9, 10 and 11. By all measures it was a record breaker in every category.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20050204/GTLOGO )

This year's event gathered 8,772 toys and $14,104 from 3,242 vehicles carrying more than 10,000 people over a 22 hour period Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Goodyear and the Marine Corps Reserves built on the success of the first joint Toys for Tots maneuver conducted in 2010, which saw 1,700 cars carrying an estimated 5,100 people who dropped off 3,762 toys and $2,239.

"The Marine Corps Reserves is very grateful to everyone who supports the Toys for Tots program and especially to those who came out in force for this very special event," said Marine SSgt. Jeffrey Starr, a Toys for Tots coordinator.

There was no charge and a toy contribution was not required to drive through and enjoy the scene, which included Christmas lights and decorations inside the airship hangar while Santa Claus waved from the blimp, the Spirit of Goodyear.

Goodyear is one of the world's largest tire companies. It owns and operates three airships in the United States and frequently leases airships in other countries around the world. It employs approximately 73,000 people and manufactures its products in 54 facilities in 22 countries around the world. For more information about Goodyear and its products, go to www.goodyear.com/corporate.

SOURCE The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company