934th airlifts childred to 'North Pole'

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Jeffrey Williams
  • 934th Airlift Wing
Minneapolis St. Paul IAP ARS --  With Rudolph in the lead and the remaining eight reindeer serving as escorts, a C-130 from the 96th Airlift Squadron helped kick off the Christmas season Dec. 1, as 11 families were "escorted" to the North Pole in Eau Claire, Wisc. 

The program originated in 1999 with employees of AT&T who wanted to make Christmas special for children in the area. With help from the Air Force and Army Reserve, it has grown to be a big deal in the Western Wisconsin area. 

"Every year I get my airplane," said Gloria Grabowski, and AT&T employee who serves as the project coordinator. "This year, I was worried, due to the weather, but the 934th Airlift Wing came through for us once again." 

Grabowski said she contacts schools, churches and local government agencies in the area looking for people interested in the program.
"Whoever calls back is put on my list until the 40 seat belts are full," she said.
Soon after the families arrive, they're taken to the airplane and buckled in. The C-130 taxis around the airport a few times, simulating a flight to the North Pole.
Upon arrival to the North Pole, elves greet the passengers with a sign denoting the location, while Santa and Mrs. Claus arrive on a Honda Gold Wing motorcycle complete with sleigh sidecar. 

The families are escorted into Santa's workshop, where he reads 'Twas the Night Before Christmas' to all of the children, while they sip on hot chocolate and eat cookies.
Presents, donated by the AT&T employees, are passed out to the children before they leave for home. 

"The airplane ride was pretty cool," said Gina Klevgard of Durand, Wisc. She and her husband, Brad, brought their sons, Dylan and Cole, to Eau Claire for the festivities.
Gavin Exner had a chance to ask Santa for a race car game, while Danielle Fanetti was hoping Santa would bring a doll. 

"I told them they are pretty lucky children to have an experience like this," said Danielle's mother, Tammy Fanetti, who also brought her sister along. "It was a great opportunity and it's pretty special. Thanks for the trip."
As to why she continues doing this every year, Grabowski said, "Other than saying, 'look around,' it's just great to see the expressions on the kid's faces and knowing the families can have a complete Christmas together with no restrictions." 

Knowing the 934th Airlift Wing and the 96th Airlift Squadron had something to do with that was very special, indeed.