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Gen. Mike Minihan, Commander of Air Mobility Command, visits the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station June 8, 2024.

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Santa Claus came to town

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Matthew Burke
  • 914th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, N.Y. --  More than 175 guests, families and their children were treated to a visit by Santa here on Dec. 19, 2015.

This event, which was open to base personnel, retirees and their families included a special entrance by Santa. Visitors lined the entrance of Hangar 707 eagerly awaiting Santa, who arrived on a C-130 Hercules.

"As soon as I put the costume on I change," said Richard Kennerson, Fire Chief, 914th Mission Support Group. "It feels like my heart is bigger and I can do the Ho Ho Ho!"

Kennerson, who started dressing as Santa at Beale Air Force Base in 1995, has been putting the suit on for children on and off for more than 20 years. Often times he has arrived in style on his motorcycle, a fire truck and even a police car. However, this year's event provided him with the most exciting arrival of his "career".

"The aircrew basically treated me like a king," said Kennerson, who celebrated his 53rd birthday on the 19th. "They opened the back hatch, which was cool--I've never done that before."

Following Santa's exciting arrival, visitors followed him on a fire truck, to the Falcon Club Café for breakfast. Guests enjoyed refreshments and children had the opportunity to talk to and take pictures with Santa. Candy and gifts were given to children to celebrate the occasion.

"The gifts were donated to Friends and Family Support Association by the community, "said Holly Curcione, FFSA Treasurer, 914th Force Support Squadron. "I think everyone had a great time and it might be the start of something wonderful."

Overall, the event was a huge success. Low temperatures and high winds threatened to dampen spirits of guests who didn't quite know what to expect.
"It's amazing to see all the face light up--even the adults," said Kennerson. "The fire Department, Services and everyone involved made it a great event."