Introduction
The holiday season is not just a time for festivities but also a period when defense organizations play a crucial role in ensuring the spirit of Christmas reaches every corner of the globe. This includes tracking Santa’s journey, delivering essentials to remote locations, and boosting morale among troops stationed in sensitive areas.
NORAD – A 69-Year Tradition of Tracking Santa
The North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), a joint organization between the United States and Canada, is renowned for its aerospace control and warning missions. However, during the holiday season, NORAD embarks on a unique mission – tracking Santa Claus. This tradition started accidentally back in 1955 due to a misprinted telephone number in a Christmas advertisement, which led to a call to NORAD’s predecessor, CONAD. The Director of Operations, Colonel Harry Shoup, decided to play along and instructed his staff to track Santa’s sleigh through radar. From that year forward, NORAD has continued this tradition, bringing joy to families worldwide. Every year, the NORAD Tracks Santa website launches on December 1, allowing children and families to follow Santa’s journey globally. Special phone lines are also open, allowing eager children to update Santa’s current location.
Operation Christmas Drop 2024 – Continuing a Long-Standing Tradition
Started by the US Air Force in 1952, Operation Christmas Drop is the Department of Defense’s oldest ongoing humanitarian mission. This operation involves air-dropping supplies to over 60 remote islands in the Indo-Pacific region, including essentials like food, clothing, and toys. The operation has grown over the years with the participation of multiple countries’ air forces, enhancing international cooperation. In 2024, aircraft from the US, Canada, Australia, South Korea, and Japan participated, covering millions of square kilometers and delivering over 77,300 pounds of aid. This operation not only helps those in remote areas but also serves as a training mission for the aircrews, improving their precision airdrop capabilities.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines – Bringing Cheer in High-Tension Areas
In regions like the West Philippine Sea, where geopolitical tensions remain high, the Philippine Air Force plays a vital role in maintaining morale and readiness. In response to aggressive maneuvers by neighboring nation states, the Philippines has increased its defense postures, conducting regular joint military exercises with allies like the United States. During the holiday season, the Armed Forces of the Philippines ensure that the spirit of Christmas reaches even those stationed in the most remote outposts. Special holiday packages, containing messages of support and seasonal cheer, are delivered to troops, reinforcing the nation’s gratitude for their service and dedication.
Conclusion
AeroTime recognizes and appreciates the efforts of all service members, whether they are in the air or on the ground, during the holiday season and beyond. Their dedication ensures that the joy and peace of Christmas can be shared globally, even in the most challenging environments.