Gene Weller: Hometown Hero
By: John Clay
Updated: January 3, 2013
Gene Weller joined the Marine Corps 39 years ago. He served 3.5 years on active duty, 14 years in the Marine Reserves, and 7 years in the Army National Guard, and his service didn't stop there.
26 years ago, Weller didn't realize he'd be taking charge of the Toys For Tots program when he volunteered to help.
Weller expanded the program, and got the Marine Corps League involved. He used Children and Youth Services, Adult Services, and food banks to find people in need. They've had great sucess, providng gifts for more than 1000 kids each year. He thinks they've been sucessful, because they get hands on. Of the 758 programs in the nation, they're one of only a few dozen that wrap the toys.
For a lifetime of service in the Centre County community with the Nittany Leathernecks and Marine Corps League, Gene Weller continues to be a Hometown Hero.
Weller isn't slowing down. He's hoping to expand the number of families they help.
