Santa visits 442d FW - Forgoes sleigh for a Warthog

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Wesley Wright
  • 442d Fighter Wing Public Affairs
WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. --  A famous holiday figure visited the 442nd Fighter Wing 5-Bay, Sunday at 2:30 p.m.

Known the world-over as Saint Nicholas, "Ole Saint Nick" or more commonly, Santa Claus, he is famous for delivering toys to good girls and boys everywhere.

While Santa has long been known for delivering Christmas cheer in his reindeer-driven sleigh, he said for the foreseeable future, he plans on turbo-charging his yearly-route using the Air Force's premiere close-air-support aircraft, the A-10 Thunderbolt II "Warthog."

Santa explained his rationale for the switch to the A-10.

"Do you know how much reindeer feed costs these days?" Santa said during a brief preliminary visit to the 442nd FW. "It's actually much more expensive than jet fuel. By flying the Warthog, I save a bundle, and get the toys to the children that much quicker."

Air Traffic controllers at Whiteman Air Force Base have repeatedly sighted Santa's A-10 in the area, and noted it is flying slow and low, possibly weighed down from all the toys Ole Saint Nick is reported to be carrying.

Santa also explained his other reason for the change in transportation.

"The A-10 just looks cooler," he said. "And that is important when you're in the holiday business."

Children of 442d FW Reservists were very happy Sunday when Santa dropped in for an early gift giving opportunity. But don't fret if you were not able to see him this weekend. He has promised to return again for Christmas later this month.