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Friends of Flying Santa,
Inc. was formed in 1997 to help
ensure the future of the annual Christmas flights to New England
lighthouses. The aerial visits of Flying Santa to lighthouses
and lifesaving stations have been a New England tradition since
1929. Capt. William Wincapaw
of Friendship, Maine - an aviation pioneer
- began the flights as a gesture of recognition to the dedicated
lighthouse keepers and their families as well as the crews of
the lifesaving stations. Capt. Wincapaw and his son, Bill, Jr.,
continued the flights for close to two decades. The father and
son team eventually recruited legendary author and historian Edward Rowe Snow to
assist them with their expanding list of lights and boat stations.
After Capt. Wincapaw's passing in 1947, the mantle was passed
to Mr. Snow, who faithfully carried on the tradition for over
four decades. With the help of his wife Anna-Myrle and their
daughter, Dolly, the isolated residents of lighthouses throughout
North America continued to receive visits from the "aerial
St. Nick"
Today, through fund-raising
and public outreach, the Friends work to continue the
flights and carry on this gesture of gratitiude to the men, women
and families of the United States Coast Guard who keep watch
over our coastal waters. Thousands of hours are volunteered each
year to ensure the success of our helicopter flights which now
encompass over 33 stops including 45 Coast Guard units from Maine
to New York.
Friends of Flying Santa remains committed to bringing this annual gift
of holiday cheer to the families of the United States Coast Guard
here in New England. With the establishment of our scholarship
program for Coast Guard dependents, our mission continues to
grow. As long as there are boat station crews, aids to navigation
teams and other units serving to keep our waters safe, we will
do our part to remind them of how much their work is appreciated.
If you are a fan of lighthouses
and maritime history or just wish to show your appreciation for
the work and dedication of the United States Coast Guard, please
support the Friends and become a part of a great New England
holiday tradition. |
