A ‘Special Ops’ crew at Kingsley Field has a big night ahead, charged with tracking Santa Claus…
“Pappy one shadow vector 360, set angels 2 – 5 – new mission – protect Santa.”
This Christmas Eve is going to be a long night for the men and women of Shadow Ops. But they say in the long run, it’s worth it.
Technical Sergeant James Shols of the Oregon Air National Guard agrees…
“Well, it’s a great responsibility, but I have several very highly qualified elves that have done this in previous years.”
Master Sergeant Summer Witts was part of a contingent from Kingsley Field that traveled to the North Pole not long ago for a pre-flight check…
“He just wanted to make sure that we had everything prepared for his arrival, and that was pretty much it. He was a very nice guy, he was ready for the year, and he had all the toys ready and packed.”
Tech Sergeant Shols notes that Santa did share some new technology…
“Santa has some upgrades again, some radar upgrades – which we’re not at liberty to talk about.”
The ring of a phone triggers activity at Shadow Ops…
“Airman Weitzel – scramble scramble race flight, vector north.’ ‘Copy – race, scramble – set angels 2-7 vector 3-6-0.”
An F-15 escort helps ensure a safe trip for Santa.
“Tell them he is airborne, and Santa is inbound – no vector traffic.”
Master Sgt. Witts cautions that Santa’s airspeed and flight plan remain ‘confidential’…
“I don’t think we’re allowed to tell you that.”
But Shadow Ops will confirm that Santa’s on his way…
“Santa’s crossing into Klamath County at this time.”
– Merry Christmas – and our thanks to the 173rd Fighter Wing from Kingsley Field!
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