The Marine Toys for Tots Program proudly announced that it has been awarded the 2026 Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher Distinguished Civilian Humanitarian Award. Established in 1996 by the Secretaries of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, and formalized under a 1998 joint regulation, the award is a multi-service recognition honoring individuals and organizations whose humanitarian service has made an extraordinary difference in the lives of military members and their families. Named for renowned philanthropists Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher, whose lifelong generosity supported members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families, the award recognizes recipients who exemplify exceptional patriotism, humanitarian concern, and selfless service.
The award was presented on August 31st, 2026, during a ceremony in the Pentagon’s Hall of Heroes, hosted by Mike Obadal, Under Secretary of the Army. David Coker, President of Fisher House Foundation, presented the award in recognition of Toys for Tots’ nearly eight decades of service to children and families in need.
Since its founding in 1947, Toys for Tots has delivered more than 732 million toys to over 325 million children and expanded its mission through year-round programs that support children facing hardship across the Nation. As the 2026 recipient, the Marine Toys for Tots Program joins a distinguished group of humanitarian leaders and organizations whose names are permanently included in the award’s legacy display at the Pentagon.
For nearly 80 years, the Marine Toys for Tots Program has served as a beacon of hope to children and families facing hardship across the Nation. Since its founding in 1947, Toys for Tots has grown into one of America’s most recognized children’s charities, distributing more than 732 million toys and delivering hope to more than 325 million children. What began as a single toy collection campaign in Los Angeles has evolved into a year-round program that supports children in need through the Toys for Tots Literacy Program, Foster Care Program, and Disaster Response and Recovery Program.
The Program’s selection for this distinguished honor reflects nearly eight decades of service to children and families in need. Rooted in its Marine Corps heritage and strengthened by the dedication of supporters nationwide, Toys for Tots continues to make a meaningful impact in communities across America.
“For a Program born of the Marine Corps to receive an award bearing the Fisher name, synonymous with devotion to those who serve, is both a profound honor and a humbling one,” said Lieutenant General James B. Laster, U.S. Marines (Retired), President and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation. “Across generations, Toys for Tots has proven that a single toy can carry something far greater than itself: the promise to a child that they are seen, they are valued, and they are not alone. This recognition belongs to the Marines, volunteers, donors, and
community partners who make that promise possible, and it strengthens our resolve to keep it for every child who still needs us.”
As the 2026 recipient, the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Toys for Tots Program joins a select group of humanitarian leaders and organizations whose service has changed lives across the Nation. Its name will be permanently inscribed in the award display at the Pentagon.
The recognition amplifies the Toys for Tots mission and highlights the profound difference compassionate citizens can make when they come together in service to others. The Program is honored to receive this award and remains committed to delivering hope, dignity, and opportunity to future generations of disadvantaged children.
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