18 western tidewater living
Gladly fulfilling an oath “Buck” Bryant strives to live up to the ideals of being Santa Claus
STORY BY STEPHEN H. COWLES PHOTOS SUBMITTED BY BUCK BRYANT III
A
lmost anyone can don a red suit, a fake beard and resemble a certain famous jolly old elf. But there are those fortunate men whose own facial hair and physique give them the distinct edge to become a servant of St. Nicholas — better known to us as Santa Claus. Collis “Buck” Bryant III of Ivor has such a gift, but that's not enough for him or anyone who desires to truly represent Santa. About 18 months ago, Bryant made a promise with his whole heart. In order to become an official member of the International Brotherhood of Real Bearded Santas (IBRBS), he had to recite “The Santa Claus Oath.” That vow, created by Phillip L. Wenz, reads in part: “I know the 'real reason for the season' and know that I am blessed to be able to be a part of it.” “I promise to use 'my' powers to create happiness, spread love and make fantasies come to life in the true and sincere tradition of the Santa Claus Legend.” “I pledge myself to these principles as a descendant of St. Nicholas the gift-giver of Myra.”
