(Disclaimer: La Tonique Media LLC does not represent any political ideology. While we do not espouse any political beliefs, we do seek to provide a balance perspective by incorporating voices from both sides of the political spectrum.)

By Elaine Sanderson

Wildfires have been burning their way through the West Coast of the United States throughout the last few months. More than 30 people have been killed with thousands displaced from their homes. Lightning strikes in August sparked several fires. However, one little boy from Oregon decided to spread a little kindness that continues to touch the hearts of many. 

Upon hearing that Oregon firefighters were battling one of many blazes not far from his home, 5-year-old Carver Tinning, wanted to do something special. Whilst at their local store picking out items to donate to crews, Carver’s grandmother, Sasha Tinnings came across the figurine. Tinning told The Associated Press, “I turn around and this Baby Yoda is just looking right at me… I said hey, this looks neat, maybe we should take this to the firefighters.” They did just that on September 12th and it was an instant hit. With it, came a note that read, “Here is a friend for you in case you get lonely”, signed by Carver. The note can still be found attached to its back. Tyler Eubanks, the donation organizer, told KGW-TV “There wasn’t a dry eye at the trailer when he dropped off the Baby Yoda with his note, I knew I had to get that to the firemen.”

Otherwise known as ‘The Child’, from the Star Wars adaptation, The Mandalorian, he belongs to the same species as Yoda.

Eubank did pass on Baby Yoda, immediately becoming a gift adored by the force. He acts as a buddy alongside the firefighters on the frontline. A Facebook page aptly named Baby Yoda Fights Fires was created, garnering 50,000 likes since mid-September, a clear sign this act of kindness is universally loved. The page documents the figurine's adventures with various fire crews across the West Coast. In an interview with ABC News, Carver’s grandmother said it was “a bit of sunshine during such a dark time.” She was right, the series being wholesome in nature among unprecedented times has most certainly aided in the popularity of the page. 

Lifting spirits and bringing comfort to those battling the blaze, Baby Yoda has become a necessary aid to these crews. In an interview with CBS News, Staff Sgt. Jaebyn Drake, part of the Oregon Air National Guard, said Baby Yoda made them think about home. “It made them think about their loved ones that they left behind while they were out working long days and working this grueling, not-so-much-fun-task.” Crews as far as Washington and Canada have asked to borrow the figurine. 

A feel-good story based on the kindness of one boy and his grandmother has sparked happiness in otherwise dark times. You can keep up with Baby Yoda and his fiery adventures here. 

Elaine is a political writer for La Tonique. You can follow Elaine on Twitter @sando_99.