Friends of Flying Santa Inc

Airplanes, helicopters, lighthouses, and Santa Claus might seem like a strange mix, but this tradition is an essential part of the season for many U.S. Coast Guard families. The aerial visits of Flying Santa to lighthouses and lifesaving stations have been a New England staple since 1929. Capt. William Wincapaw of Friendship, Maine, 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 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.

Today, Friends of Flying Santa works to continue the flights and carry on this gesture of gratitude to the men, women, and families of the U.S. 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 more than 33 stops and 61 Coast Guard units from Maine to New York, with well over 1000 children included in the visits.

"My children have grown up surrounded by this amazing and historical tradition, for over a decade from Point Judith to Portsmouth Harbor to Castle Hill. Flying Santa even made sure my kids had a gift for the year I was overseas in the Persian Gulf....we never put down their names on a list...he just remembered!! Truly a class act! Please donate to this great historical organization." -John Roberts and family.

 

Generous benefactors have already donated money and time to obtain fuel, pilots and aircraft to deliver the presents, but we still need to purchase toys.

ALL money raised by this campaign goes directly to purchase gifts for the children. There are no paid staff or administrative fees. Our goal is to raise $10,000 by December 31. Please help us provide a special memory for these children of our active duty Coast Guard members and continue the wonderful maritime legacy of Flying Santa.

"We have had such VERY special memories at Chatham and Nantucket from our Flying Santa surprises.....PLEASE help us keep the magic alive for Coast Guard families to come!" - CDR Bob, Ellen, Sammie & Julia Fogel.