By Kendall Warner
The Virginian-Pilot
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — Honks and cheers were heard Friday as a longtime EMT for Virginia Beach Emergency Medical Services stood on the front ramp of Ocean Park Volunteer Rescue Squad’s home dressed as Santa Claus waving to passersby along Shore Drive.
Santa, adamant about remaining anonymous, hatched the idea about 20 years ago to help children in stressful or tragic situations around Christmas. About 3 years later in 2004, “Santa on the Air” was put into practice.
From noon Dec. 20 to noon Christmas Day, Santa can be reached by radio 24/7 to all first responders in Hampton Roads, including local military, police, firefighters, EMS and state police.
In his 21st year doing the program, Santa hops on the radio from the North Pole to talk to children, offering comfort, a distraction and a reminder of what the season is all about.
“The best part is I couldn’t do it if it weren’t for the responders out there who put the word out to Santa,” Santa said. “And fortunately they seem to trust me enough to know I’m going to do something to help the situation.”
There were only three calls during the program’s first year as Santa was available only to local EMS for three days ahead of Christmas.
“But those were actually very important calls to the three people who called them in,” Santa said. “And all three of them gave glowing reviews about what happened to the children afterwards.”
According to Santa, Mrs. Claus also enjoys being involved and is often specifically requested by youngsters. If Santa is unable to be at his radio for any reason, Mrs. Claus, who is also in the medical field, takes over — even in the middle of the night.
“Mostly it’s about just reminding them that this is the season of giving, that there is something there for them no matter what may be happening,” Santa said.
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