TOBYHANNA -- The Christmas spirit is in the air at the Tobyhanna Army Depot, as hundreds of kids get ready for the season with a special operation: Operation Santa Claus.
"Absolutely, it starts the holiday season off just the right way, and gets you right into the mood. We got it all decorated and we're ready for Santa," said Community Services division chief Walter Dorosky.
This more-than-50-year tradition brings hundreds of kids and many adults with mental and physical disabilities to the depot to kick off the holiday season. They come from the Poconos, Scranton, Wilkes-Barre, and beyond.
"It's awesome, the characters, what they do up here at Tobyhanna, it's incredible. It really is," said associate teacher Glen Pembleton of the Stroudsburg School District.
All kinds of characters and even local mascots joined in, helping make the day festive. Kids were looking for their favorites.
"Mickey Mouse," said 6-year-old Lester Henry.
The highlight of the day was the big man himself: Santa Claus. Each kid got to sit on Santa's lap.
10-year-old Miranda Marshall of Old Forge says she likes that part the most.
"Because everybody gets presents," said Miranda.
Volunteers from the depot help make the operation run smoothly, a mission they gladly accept.
"It's rewarding to see the smiling faces of kids and adults who don't really have a home to go to, and we really enjoy this time of year," said SFC Christopher Wilson.
"It just makes a warm feeling go through your body. It's so nice to see the children, some of whom are physically or mentally challenged just to smile, have a good time," said Dorosky.
Another year, and another successful Operation Santa Claus.
