4 Wing Cold Lake helping Santa Claus again on his big mission

Santa Claus’ escorts through the skies over Canada have been selected.

The Canadian North American Aerospace Defense Command announced that 4 Wing Cold Lake pilots, Captain Tucker Densmore, (from Halifax), and Captain Sean Foster of Cold Lake are this year’s escort pilots, with Corporal Edrendel Caddarao (of San Marcelino, Philippines) and Aviator Christopher Marsh (of Scarborough, Ont.) serving as maintainers.

“Thanks to the dedicated men and women who keep a watchful eye over North American airspace 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. NORAD tracks everything that flies in and around North America. On December 24, we also have the special mission of tracking and escorting Santa,” said Major-General (Maj.-Gen.) Eric Kenny, Commander of the Canadian NORAD Region.

“Utilizing the North Warning System’s powerful radar and satellite systems, we are able to see into the North better than ever, allowing us to track Santa more precisely, ensuring he has a safe trip through North American airspace.”

CF-18 escort pilots and maintainers are chosen from both 3 Wing Bagotville, Que. and 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alta., while the trackers are chosen from the Canadian Air Defence Sector at 22 Wing North Bay, Ont.

This Christmas will mark the 65th consecutive year of NORAD tracking Santa’s yuletide journey around the world.

“From everyone across the Canadian NORAD Region who work every day to keep Canada and North America safe – thank you for your professionalism and for the support of your families. Happy Holidays,” added Maj.-Gen. Kenny.

The NORAD Tracks Santa apps are available in the Apple and Google Play stores.