Crew members assigned to the Virginia-class, fast attack submarine, PCU Colorado (SSN 788) participated in the Toys for Tots program from Dec. 18 to Dec. 20 in Groton, Conn.

Members of Colorado's First Class Petty Officer Association (FCPOA) came up with the idea to promote the charity during Colorado's recent underway. The crew returned to their home port and with just a few days left to shop and donate, met the Toys for Tot's delivery deadline for this year's Christmas holiday.

"This is the first time Colorado participated in Toys for Tots," said FCPOA President Machinist Mate First Class Scott Gold. "Colorado is a new vessel; we are getting commissioned in March, so this is just the start of a tradition that will continue throughout Colorado's life span."

"Having the charity event was pretty impressive to see the crew come together in a short amount of time," said Gold. "As the season comes around next year we plan to expand our efforts to increase donations.

Crew members donated two dozen assorted gifts and a $200 cash donation to the Toys for Tots program through the Thames River Detachment, Marine Corps League.

"We really appreciate the USS Colorado's donations and all the donations from Navy families and commands from Naval Sub[marine] base New London," said Detachment Commandant Patrick McMahon.

McMahon said the effects of donating one gift tremendously helps Toys for Tots execute its mission.

Colorado's donations will be distributed to fulfill the local community's request and will directly contribute to the mission and goals of the Toys for Tots Program, to deliver - through a new toy at Christmas, a message of hope to economically disadvantaged children.

For more news from Naval Submarine Support Center, New London , visit www.navy.mil/.