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The elf himself visits 419th before big day

  • Published
  • By Bryan Magaña
  • 419th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, UTAH --  For the children of 419th Fighter Wing reservists, Santa's standard sleigh just doesn't cut it. When Santa swung by Hangar 37 for the wing's annual Christmas party Dec. 17, he arrived Air Force style. Instead of listening for jingling bells, the children anticipated the roar of an F-16 engine.

Santa, played by 419th Fighter Wing Commander Col. Walter "Buck" Sams, was accompanied by Harley the Elf, the wing's official Christmas mascot, played by Lt. Col. Kurt Gallegos, of the 466th Fighter Squadron. The duo passed out gifts and candy before disappearing as mysteriously as they'd arrived.