November 2011-January 2012 - Wisconsin National Guard ...

Santa peeks into a gift bag during the “Flightto the North Pole” Dec. 10 at the WisconsinAir National Guard’s 128th Air Refueling Wingin Milwaukee. Approximately 15 families ofchildren with life-threatening illnesses tookpart in the event. Wisconsin National Guardphoto by 1st Sgt. Vaughn R. Larson@ease1st Sgt. Vaughn R. LarsonWisconsin National GuardA flight of fancy brought an earlyChristmas for 15 families of children withlife-threatening illnesses.The annual “Flight to the North Pole”began 27 years ago at the Wisconsin AirNational Guard’s 128th Air RefuelingExpressWing in Milwaukee, in collaborationwith the Silverliners — a group of formerEastern Air Lines flight attendants —and the 128th Community Council. Theconcept has taken off and is now in 20cities nationwide.“How long will the flight take?” askedTorre Engstron, 7, of Milwaukee.“About 20 minutes,” replied one of thevolunteers before the families boarded adecorated KC-135 Stratotanker designated“Santa Liner” for the day. “We have aspecial route.”The “Santa Liner” taxied the familiesfrom one part of the 128th Air RefuelingWing base to another. En route, childrenwere given the opportunity to visit thecockpit where they heard a message fromSanta Claus via headphone, and could“fly” the aircraft with assistance from oneof the pilots. Once at their destination —Sijan Hall decorated as the North Pole— the families were greeted by Santa andMrs. Claus, ushered inside where dozensof carolers awaited, and taken to tables forContinued on Page 1312 November 2011-January 2012