Guardsmen begin Christmas season Published Nov. 7, 2003 CAMP DENALI, Alaska (AFPN) -- Santa’s C-130H turboprop Hercules sleigh delivered toys, clothing, books, school supplies and water to nearby Shishmaref on Nov. 6 to kick off the Christmas season. For the children and families of the remote island community, it was a special treat they looked forward to, officials said.“We’re excited about this mission every year,” said Brig. Gen. Craig Campbell, adjutant general of the Alaska National Guard. “This really gives us an opportunity to reach out to families in the communities across Alaska, and say ‘thanks’”They will visit more than 15 communities this season, officials said. Santa’s Guard gift-lift began in 1956 with a request from St. Mary’s Mission. They needed toys for their children. The airmen received new and used toys from the Anchorage community. After fixing any worn parts, they gave them to Saint Nick for delivery aboard a C-123J Provider. Over the years, other villages, schools and groups invited Operation Santa Claus to drop in on their communities. Tens of thousands of Alaskan schoolchildren have had a visit from the jolly old man.During this year’s Operation Santa Claus, they will have visited more than 3,000 youngsters, before the “big day.”