A long-standing Alaska National Guard tradition took on a new meaning this year as Operation Santa Claus brought holiday cheer to families displaced by Typhoon Halong.
For nearly 70 years, Operation Santa Claus has delivered gifts and joy to rural Alaskan communities. But for the first time in recent memory, the holiday event was held in Anchorage, serving families from Western Alaska who are still recovering after the devastating storm.
The celebration took place at the Alaska Native Heritage Center, with help from the Association of Village Council Presidents, Calista Corporation, FEMA, the Salvation Army, the Fireweed Foundation, and other state and local partners…