Every year Tuckamore Aviation donates time and resources to fly Santa to Coast Guard Bases and Light Houses around New England in support of local Coast Guard families.
Friends of Flying Santa, Inc. was formed in 1997 to help ensure the future of the annual Christmas flights to New England's USCG units and 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.
Today, through fund-raising and public outreach, Friends of Flying Santa strives to continue the annual Christmas helicopter flights and carry on this gesture of gratitude 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 flights which now encompass more than 30 stops including 61 Coast Guard units from Maine to New York. The helicopter visits and gifts for the children are small tokens of appreciation for the outstanding work of the United States Coast Guard and their supportive families.
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.
