Photo By Sgt. Tyler Giguere | Santa Claus listens to what children want for Christmas and then gives out candy canes...... read more read more
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CAMP HANSEN, Japan – The Christmas spirit was in full swing at Camp Schwab during a Christmas event in which Santa Claus appeared Dec. 12, 2015.
The Combat Assault Battalion and Marine Corps Community Services sponsored event, known as Santa’s Little Helper, kicked off with Santa Claus fast roping from a helicopter, getting into a Light Armored Vehicle and then passing out candy canes and speaking to children from all around the Okinawa area.
“It was great to see Santa putting a shock on all the kids faces when he repelled out of that helicopter,” said Kevin N. Ferguson, a Marine spouse. “They seem him year after year, sitting in a chair under a Christmas tree, but this time it was different, it really was a Christmas miracle.”
Santa dropping from above wasn’t the only rare site to see. The event had fake snow for the children to play in, a rare site for Okinawa and its hot weather.
“I love the snow,” said Samuel R. Morales, 5 years old. “This is the first time I’ve seen snow and all the Marines let me snowball fight them, it was awesome. They’re really nice, I want to be one of them, like my dad.”
The event also consisted of a jump house and a face painting station. Food was served as well for all guests in attendance. Marines helped run some of the stations and joined in the festivities with the children. They also set up some of CAB’s vehicles for viewing.
“The food was great, the Marines performed well and Santa was a huge hit,” said Ferguson, from San Antonio, New Mexico. “Every Christmas I’m out here I know where I’ll be bringing my family. To see your child this happy puts a great big smile on your own face, how could a parent not enjoy seeing that?”
The Marines ended the day highly motivated after experiencing the joy of all the children’s’ grinning faces and shouts of joy. The event was an astounding success, with many families from all over the island arriving to take part.
“I am so thankful to the Marines who serve,” said Morales, from San Diego, California. “I got to meet my hero, Santa, because they flew him in and drove him here. I think this year the Marines might be flying Santa around so he can bring the presents, his slay must be broken.”
| Date Taken: | 12.12.2015 |
| Date Posted: | 12.15.2015 00:41 |
| Story ID: | 184393 |
| Location: | CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 101 |
| Downloads: | 1 |
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